CER Principles and Maintenance 3

Question 1

Which microorganism class is NOT eliminated by high-level disinfection under standard contact conditions?

Accepted Answer

Clostridium difficile spores in high numbers

Answer

HLD eliminates vegetative bacteria, most fungal spores, viruses, and mycobacteria, but high concentrations of resistant bacterial endospores like C. difficile may survive.

Question 2

What is the correct sequence of manual reprocessing steps for a flexible endoscope?

Accepted Answer

Pre-clean at bedside, transport, leak test, clean, rinse, HLD, rinse, dry, store

Answer

The validated sequence begins with immediate pre-cleaning at bedside, followed by transport, leak testing, manual cleaning, rinsing, HLD, final rinsing, drying, and storage.

Question 3

Which action should be taken when an endoscope fails a leak test during routine reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Remove the scope from service, label it as damaged, and send for repair before reuse

Answer

A failed leak test means the scope's integrity is compromised; it must be removed from service and repaired before it can be safely reprocessed and used.

Question 4

The term 'bioburden' as it applies to endoscope reprocessing refers to:

Accepted Answer

The number and type of microorganisms present on the endoscope before reprocessing

Answer

Bioburden is the population of viable microorganisms on the endoscope surface and channels that must be reduced through cleaning and disinfection.

Question 5

Which statement best describes the role of enzymatic detergents in endoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

They break down proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids to facilitate mechanical removal of bioburden

Answer

Enzymatic detergents contain proteases, amylases, and lipases that chemically digest organic soil, making it easier to remove mechanically during the cleaning phase.

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER - Certified Endoscope Reprocessor Practice Test

CER Principles and Maintenance 3