CHP Hijama Safety & Sterilization 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which hepatitis virus is most commonly transmitted through contaminated hijama equipment if sterilization is inadequate?
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B (Correct answer)
- Hepatitis D
- Hepatitis E
Correct answer: Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is the bloodborne pathogen most commonly associated with inadequate sterilization in wet cupping due to its high infectivity and environmental stability.
Question 2: What is the correct order of the decontamination process for reusable hijama instruments?
- Sterilize → Clean → Disinfect
- Clean → Disinfect → Sterilize (Correct answer)
- Disinfect → Clean → Sterilize
- Clean → Sterilize → Disinfect
Correct answer: Clean → Disinfect → Sterilize
The correct sequence is clean first (remove gross contamination), then disinfect (reduce microbial load), then sterilize (eliminate all microorganisms).
Question 3: A client discloses they are HIV-positive before a hijama session. What is the most appropriate response?
- Refuse to perform the session entirely
- Proceed using standard precautions as with every client (Correct answer)
- Use double gloves only and proceed normally
- Require a physician clearance letter before proceeding
Correct answer: Proceed using standard precautions as with every client
Standard precautions apply universally regardless of HIV status; all clients are treated as potentially infectious, so the same protocol is used.
Question 4: Which PPE item is most critical when performing the scarification (lancet) phase of wet hijama?
- Face shield
- Gloves (Correct answer)
- Gown
- Shoe covers
Correct answer: Gloves
Gloves are the most critical item during scarification because direct blood contact with the practitioner's hands is the primary route of pathogen transmission.
Question 5: What is the minimum recommended contact time for a 70% isopropyl alcohol wipe to effectively disinfect intact skin before cupping?
- 5 seconds
- 15 seconds
- 30 seconds (Correct answer)
- 60 seconds
Correct answer: 30 seconds
A 30-second contact (dwell) time is the standard minimum for 70% isopropyl alcohol to adequately disinfect intact skin prior to a procedure.
Question 6: Which waste category do used lancets and scarification blades fall under in the United States?
- General solid waste
- Regulated medical waste / sharps waste (Correct answer)
- Hazardous chemical waste
- Infectious liquid waste
Correct answer: Regulated medical waste / sharps waste
Used lancets and blades are classified as regulated medical waste (sharps) and must be disposed of in a puncture-resistant sharps container per OSHA and EPA guidelines.
Question 7: Fire cupping involves an open flame. What specific fire safety measure is mandatory when using this technique?
- Keeping water on the floor near the client
- Keeping a fire extinguisher or fire blanket within arm's reach (Correct answer)
- Using only 90% isopropyl alcohol for the flame
- Performing the technique only in rooms with tile floors
Correct answer: Keeping a fire extinguisher or fire blanket within arm's reach
A fire extinguisher or fire blanket must be immediately accessible whenever open flame is used in a treatment setting to allow rapid response to accidental ignition.
CHP Hijama Safety & Sterilization 2
Which hepatitis virus is most commonly transmitted through contaminated hijama equipment if sterilization is inadequate?