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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

Prompt first aid (washing with soap and water) and immediate reporting are essential for timely post-exposure assessment, prophylaxis (if indicated), and follow-up testing for bloodborne pathogens.