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

The hierarchy of controls prioritizes eliminating the hazard first, then substituting with less hazardous alternatives, then engineering controls, then administrative controls, with PPE as the last line of defence.

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

A comprehensive sharps prevention program includes puncture-resistant transport containers, heavy-duty gloves, safe handling techniques, designated sharps disposal containers, and engineered safety devices where available.

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

Under WHMIS 2015 (Canada's workplace hazardous materials information system), SDS must be available for all hazardous products. Staff must know where to find them and how to interpret the safety information they contain.

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

Reprocessing technicians perform physically demanding, repetitive work including lifting heavy instrument trays, standing for extended periods, and performing fine motor tasks. Ergonomic interventions reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

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

Health surveillance monitors reprocessing staff for effects of workplace chemical exposures, ensures protective immunizations (especially hepatitis B) are maintained, and provides early detection of occupational health conditions.

CMDRT - Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Practice Test

CMDRT - Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Practice Test

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