CER Microbiology and Infection Control 2

Question 1

Which organism is MOST resistant to chemical disinfectants and requires sterilization to eliminate?

Accepted Answer

Bacterial endospores (Clostridium)

Answer

Bacterial endospores such as those from Clostridium species are the most resistant microbial forms and require sterilization, not just disinfection, for elimination.

Question 2

A high-level disinfectant must be capable of killing all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Bacterial spores (all concentrations)

Answer

High-level disinfection kills vegetative bacteria, mycobacteria, and viruses but does NOT reliably kill all bacterial spores — that requires sterilization.

Question 3

Which term describes the number of viable organisms present on or in a device before reprocessing begins?

Accepted Answer

Bioburden

Answer

Bioburden refers to the total number of viable microorganisms on a device prior to any cleaning or disinfection process.

Question 4

What is the primary reason point-of-use pre-cleaning (bedside flushing) is critical in endoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

It prevents biofilm formation by removing organic matter before it dries

Answer

Bedside pre-cleaning prevents organic material from drying inside channels, which would make it far more difficult to remove and could facilitate biofilm development.

Question 5

Which type of hepatitis virus is classified as MOST resistant to chemical inactivation?

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis B

Answer

Hepatitis B virus is notably more resistant to chemical disinfectants than Hepatitis A, C, or D, requiring high-level disinfection for reliable inactivation.

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER Microbiology and Infection Control 2