CIS Quality Assurance Systems Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of biological indicators in sterilization quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

To verify that sterilization conditions were sufficient to kill highly resistant bacterial spores

Answer

To measure the temperature inside the sterilizer

Answer

To check chemical sterilant concentration

Answer

To confirm instruments were cleaned before sterilization

Question 2

What does a positive biological indicator result require the department to do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately recall all items from the suspect load, quarantine remaining loads, and investigate

Answer

Simply document and continue operations

Answer

Replace the BI brand

Answer

Clean the sterilizer and run another cycle

Question 3

What is the purpose of documenting sterilizer cycle printouts?

Accepted Answer

To provide a permanent record of sterilization parameters for verification, traceability, and compliance

Answer

To satisfy insurance requirements only

Answer

To calculate energy consumption

Answer

To determine when to replace the sterilizer

Question 4

How often should biological indicator testing be performed for standard loads?

Accepted Answer

At least weekly and with every load containing implantable devices

Answer

Only during annual maintenance

Answer

Every six months

Answer

Only when failure is suspected

Question 5

What is a corrective action plan in sterile processing quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

A documented response identifying root cause of a quality deviation and steps to prevent recurrence

Answer

A plan to purchase new equipment

Answer

A schedule for routine maintenance

Answer

A training manual for new employees

Question 6

What role does competency testing play in sterile processing quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

Ongoing verification that staff can correctly perform critical processes, typically annually

Answer

Only needed for new employees

Answer

Replaces biological indicator testing

Answer

Optional for experienced staff