CET Infection Control & Sterilization Techniques 2

Question 1

Which prion-specific reprocessing step is recommended by the CDC for endoscopes used on patients with suspected Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease?

Accepted Answer

Autoclaving at 134°C for 18 minutes followed by disposal

Answer

For prion-contaminated instruments, autoclaving at 134°C for 18 minutes (gravity cycle) followed by disposal or dedicated quarantine is the recommended approach, as standard HLD does not inactivate prions.

Question 2

What does the term 'reprocessing' encompass in the context of flexible endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Pre-cleaning, leak testing, manual cleaning, HLD or sterilization, rinsing, drying, and storage

Answer

Reprocessing is a multi-step process that includes pre-cleaning at point of use, leak testing, manual cleaning, high-level disinfection or sterilization, final rinsing, thorough drying, and proper storage.

Question 3

Which organism is considered the gold-standard biological indicator for monitoring steam sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are used as biological indicators for steam sterilization because they are highly heat-resistant and reliably killed by proper steam cycles.

Question 4

A technician notices that a scope's biopsy channel shows discoloration and debris after manual cleaning. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Return the scope to manual cleaning until visually clean before proceeding

Answer

Disinfection cannot be effective if organic debris is present; the scope must be returned to manual cleaning to achieve visual cleanliness before advancing to HLD.

Question 5

When using peracetic acid–based liquid chemical sterilant, what is the critical parameter the technician must verify before each cycle?

Accepted Answer

Minimum effective concentration using a chemical test strip

Answer

Peracetic acid degrades over time and with use; chemical test strips must confirm the solution meets or exceeds the minimum effective concentration (MEC) before every cycle.

(CET) Certified Endoscopy Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Endoscopy Technician Practice Test

CET Infection Control & Sterilization Techniques 2