Safety & Infection Control 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 Safety & Infection Control flashcards as text
When preparing a high-level disinfectant solution (e.g., glutaraldehyde) for soaking semi-critical instruments, which safety measure is most critical?
Answer: Working in a well-ventilated area and wearing appropriate chemical-resistant PPE
Glutaraldehyde and similar high-level disinfectants emit toxic fumes; proper ventilation and chemical-resistant PPE (gloves, eye protection) are essential to protect the practitioner.
In the context of electrology infection control, what is the purpose of an Exposure Control Plan (ECP)?
Answer: To outline procedures that minimize employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens
OSHA requires an Exposure Control Plan that documents how an employer will protect employees from occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
A practitioner notices that sterile pouches from the autoclave have wet spots after the cycle. What does this indicate?
Answer: Wet packs indicate a sterilization failure and the instruments should be reprocessed
Wet packs indicate a drying failure, which compromises sterile packaging integrity and creates a pathway for microorganism contamination; items must be reprocessed.
Which of the following is the most effective method to prevent the transmission of infections in an electrology setting?
Answer: Consistent hand hygiene by the electrologist before and after every client
Hand hygiene remains the single most effective infection control practice, reducing transmission of pathogens between clients and preventing self-contamination.
Under Standard Precautions, which body fluid from a client should always be treated as potentially infectious?
Answer: Blood and all body fluids regardless of diagnosis
Standard Precautions require treating ALL blood and body fluids as potentially infectious, regardless of the client's known health status.
What is the correct action when a sterile package's integrity seal is found to be broken or compromised before use?
Answer: Repackage and re-sterilize the instrument before use
A compromised package seal means sterility can no longer be guaranteed; the item must be repackaged and re-sterilized before clinical use.
Which of the following cleaning agents is most appropriate for pre-cleaning electrology instruments before sterilization to remove blood and tissue debris?
Answer: Enzymatic detergent cleaner
Enzymatic detergent cleaners break down proteins and organic material (blood, tissue) most effectively, preparing instruments for successful sterilization.