CER High-Level Disinfection Processes 4

Question 1

What happens to the reuse life of an HLD solution when it is diluted by repeatedly immersing wet endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

The concentration drops and reuse life is shortened

Answer

The reuse life is extended because water stabilizes the chemical

Answer

Dilution has no effect if the temperature remains constant

Answer

The solution becomes more effective at lower concentrations

Question 2

According to AAMI ST91, what type of water should be used for the final rinse of a high-level disinfected endoscope?

Accepted Answer

Tap water filtered to 0.2 microns or sterile water

Answer

Standard tap water at room temperature

Answer

Distilled water heated to 60°C

Answer

Tap water with added enzymatic detergent

Question 3

Which of the following conditions would require discarding an HLD solution before its labeled reuse date?

Accepted Answer

The MRC test strip indicates concentration is below the minimum

Answer

The solution temperature rises above 25°C briefly

Answer

The container lid was left off for less than 30 minutes

Answer

A new lot of test strips was opened

Question 4

A gastroscope used on a patient with active tuberculosis requires which level of reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

High-level disinfection following standard reprocessing protocol

Answer

Standard precaution cleaning only

Answer

Low-level disinfection with 70% alcohol

Answer

Immediate disposal as single-use equipment

Question 5

What is the recommended approach when an endoscope cannot be reprocessed immediately after patient use?

Accepted Answer

Perform pre-cleaning immediately and place it in enzymatic solution or dry transport

Answer

Store the scope dry in a cabinet until the next morning

Answer

Keep it submerged in water to prevent drying of secretions

Answer

Wrap it in a sterile drape and refrigerate

Question 6

How should HLD chemicals be stored to maintain their stability?

Accepted Answer

According to manufacturer instructions, typically cool and away from light

Answer

In a warm area above 30°C to enhance activity

Answer

Mixed with enzymatic detergents to extend shelf life

Answer

In open containers to allow off-gassing of harmful vapors

Question 7

Which organization sets national guidelines specifically addressing endoscope reprocessing and HLD in the United States?

Accepted Answer

CDC and AAMI, through guidelines such as ST91

Answer

OSHA, through the Bloodborne Pathogens Standard only

Answer

The Joint Commission, through accreditation surveys only

Answer

The FDA, through 510(k) clearance of scopes