CMLA Infection Control 5

Question 1

Which organization publishes the primary guidelines for isolation precautions used in US hospitals?

Accepted Answer

CDC/HICPAC

Answer

The CDC's Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) publishes the authoritative guidelines for isolation precautions in US healthcare settings.

Question 2

What is the correct action if a laboratory worker's mucous membranes are splashed with a potentially infectious body fluid?

Accepted Answer

Flush with water for at least 15 minutes and report the exposure

Answer

Mucous membrane exposures require immediate flushing with water for a minimum of 15 minutes followed by prompt reporting and post-exposure evaluation.

Question 3

Which of the following specimens requires processing in a Class II biological safety cabinet?

Accepted Answer

Sputum suspected of containing Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Answer

Specimens suspected of containing M. tuberculosis must be handled in a Class II BSC to prevent inhalation of aerosolized infectious particles.

Question 4

What does it mean when a microorganism is described as having developed antibiotic resistance through horizontal gene transfer?

Accepted Answer

The organism acquired resistance genes from another organism without reproduction

Answer

Horizontal gene transfer allows bacteria to share resistance genes via plasmids or other mechanisms directly between organisms, independent of reproduction.

Question 5

According to standard precautions, when is it necessary to wear a gown during laboratory specimen processing?

Accepted Answer

When splashing or spraying of blood or body fluids is anticipated

Answer

Standard precautions require a gown whenever there is a risk of clothing or skin becoming contaminated from splashes or sprays of blood or body fluids.

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

(CMLA) Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant Practice Test

CMLA Infection Control 5