Equipment Operation & Maintenance Flashcards
7 cards from real CME practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Equipment Operation & Maintenance flashcards as text
What is the recommended action when an autoclave fails a biological indicator (spore) test?
Answer: Remove the autoclave from service, recall potentially non-sterile items, and contact a service technician
A failed biological indicator test means sterilization was not achieved; the autoclave must be taken out of service and all items processed since the last successful test should be considered non-sterile.
In thermolysis, the term 'flash' or 'high frequency-short duration' refers to:
Answer: Delivering high-intensity RF current in very brief pulses (fractions of a second)
Flash thermolysis uses high-intensity RF current delivered in very short bursts, relying on speed and precision rather than prolonged heat exposure.
Which factor most directly affects the depth of heat distribution in thermolysis?
Answer: The probe insertion depth and length of the probe within the follicle
Probe insertion depth determines where RF-generated heat is concentrated; deeper insertion treats the germinal cells at the follicle base more effectively.
A probe that has visible pitting, rough spots, or deformity at the tip should be:
Answer: Discarded, as surface defects compromise accurate insertion and sterility
Any physical defect on a probe tip compromises precise follicle insertion and creates areas that may harbor microorganisms even after sterilization.
The 'timer' function on an electrolysis unit is specifically designed to control:
Answer: The duration of current flow during each individual probe insertion
The epilator timer controls how long current flows during each insertion, which directly determines the amount of energy delivered to the follicle.
Electrolysis equipment should undergo formal preventive maintenance by a qualified technician:
Answer: At least annually, or per manufacturer recommendations, to verify electrical safety and output accuracy
Annual or manufacturer-recommended preventive maintenance ensures electrical safety, calibration accuracy, and compliance with medical device standards.
What is the function of a 'rheostat' or 'potentiometer' in an older electrolysis unit?
Answer: To provide variable resistance for adjusting current intensity manually
A rheostat or potentiometer is a variable resistor that allows the operator to manually adjust the level of current output by changing circuit resistance.