CLT Infection Control & Sterilization in Laser Therapy 2

Question 1

What is the fundamental distinction between sterilization and disinfection?

Accepted Answer

Sterilization destroys all microbial life including resistant spores; disinfection reduces microorganisms but may not eliminate all spores

Answer

They refer to identical decontamination processes

Answer

Disinfection provides a higher level of microbial kill than sterilization

Answer

Sterilization targets bacteria only, while disinfection targets viruses only

Question 2

Which sterilization method is the gold standard for heat-stable laser therapy accessories?

Accepted Answer

Steam sterilization (autoclave)

Answer

Prolonged soaking in 70% isopropyl alcohol

Answer

Ultraviolet (UV) light cabinet exposure

Answer

Dry wiping with a germicidal cloth

Question 3

Why can many laser probes with fiber optic delivery systems NOT be autoclaved?

Accepted Answer

High heat and steam can permanently damage delicate fiber optic components and coatings

Answer

Autoclaving is cost-prohibitive for routine use

Answer

Autoclaving alters the emission wavelength of the laser

Answer

The process takes too long relative to patient scheduling needs

Question 4

Which Spaulding category requires at minimum high-level disinfection (HLD) before use?

Accepted Answer

Semi-critical items (contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin)

Answer

Non-critical items (contact intact skin only)

Answer

Environmental surfaces with no patient contact

Answer

Administrative items such as patient charts

Question 5

What does the disinfectant 'contact time' (wet time or dwell time) refer to?

Accepted Answer

The duration the surface must remain visibly wet to achieve the product's claimed kill efficacy

Answer

The time required to apply the disinfectant to the surface

Answer

The shelf life of the disinfectant once opened

Answer

The time needed to rinse residual disinfectant from the surface

Question 6

A high-level disinfectant (HLD) is defined as one that kills all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

All concentrations of bacterial spores under all conditions

Answer

Vegetative bacteria

Answer

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Answer

Lipid and non-lipid viruses

Question 7

What is the correct handling policy for items labeled 'single-use' (SUI) in a laser therapy practice?

Accepted Answer

Single-use items must be discarded after each use and must never be reprocessed or reused

Answer

Single-use items may be cleaned and reused on the same patient during one visit

Answer

Single-use items can be resterilized and reused on different patients

Answer

Single-use items can be rinsed and stored for a second use if they appear undamaged