CMDRT - Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Occupational Health and Safety Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the hierarchy of controls as applied to hazards in the medical device reprocessing department?

Accepted Answer

Elimination → Substitution → Engineering controls → Administrative controls → PPE, in order of most to least effective

Answer

PPE is always the first and best control measure

Answer

Training is the most effective control

Answer

Administrative controls are always preferred over engineering controls

Question 2

What are the main sharps injury prevention strategies in the reprocessing department?

Accepted Answer

Using puncture-resistant containers, heavy-duty gloves, instrument handling techniques that avoid hand-to-hand passing, and engineered sharps safety devices

Answer

There is no way to prevent sharps injuries

Answer

Only wearing double gloves

Answer

Avoiding all contact with instruments

Question 3

What are the requirements for chemical safety data sheets (SDS) in the reprocessing department?

Accepted Answer

Current SDS must be readily accessible for every chemical product used in the department, and staff must be trained on how to read and use them

Answer

SDS are optional documents

Answer

SDS are only needed for chemicals used in sterilization

Answer

One general SDS covers all cleaning chemicals

Question 4

What ergonomic hazards are common in medical device reprocessing and how can they be mitigated?

Accepted Answer

Repetitive motion, prolonged standing, heavy lifting, and awkward postures are common and can be mitigated through adjustable workstations, anti-fatigue mats, lift assists, and task rotation

Answer

There are no ergonomic hazards in reprocessing

Answer

Only back injuries are a concern

Answer

Ergonomic hazards only affect office workers

Question 5

What is the purpose of an occupational health surveillance program for reprocessing staff?

Accepted Answer

To track health effects related to workplace exposures, ensure immunizations are current, and detect early signs of occupational illness

Answer

To monitor employee attendance

Answer

To manage employee scheduling

Answer

Surveillance programs are not needed in reprocessing departments

Question 6

What should a reprocessing technician do immediately after sustaining a needlestick injury from a contaminated instrument?

Accepted Answer

Immediately wash the site with soap and water, report the incident to the supervisor, and seek medical assessment according to the facility's post-exposure protocol

Answer

Continue working and report it at the end of the shift

Answer

Apply a bandage and continue working

Answer

Squeeze the wound vigorously to push out blood