CMLA Equipment Maintenance 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a centrifuge maintenance log?

Accepted Answer

To track speed calibration, rotor use, and maintenance events for troubleshooting and compliance

Answer

Centrifuge maintenance logs capture calibration checks, rotor run counts, and any repairs to support troubleshooting and regulatory compliance.

Question 2

A hematology analyzer produces flags on every sample. After confirming reagents are not expired, what is the next most appropriate maintenance step?

Accepted Answer

Run the manufacturer's cleaning cycle and check fluid lines for clogs

Answer

Running the cleaning cycle and inspecting fluid lines addresses the most common cause of persistent flags — clogs or debris in the fluidics system.

Question 3

Which centrifuge component must be inspected for cracks or stress fractures before each use?

Accepted Answer

Rotor

Answer

A cracked rotor can fail catastrophically at high speed, so visual inspection before each use is a critical safety step.

Question 4

When decontaminating a biosafety cabinet (BSC) before filter replacement, which agent is most commonly recommended?

Accepted Answer

Formaldehyde gas or vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP)

Answer

Formaldehyde fumigation or VHP decontamination penetrates the HEPA filter and internal surfaces, ensuring thorough inactivation before filter change.

Question 5

What does the term 'preventive maintenance' (PM) mean in the clinical laboratory context?

Accepted Answer

Scheduled, routine servicing performed to prevent equipment failure before it occurs

Answer

Preventive maintenance consists of scheduled tasks — cleaning, lubrication, part replacement — designed to minimize unplanned downtime.

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test