CNOR Infection Prevention and Control 4

Question 1

What is the minimum required concentration of isopropyl alcohol for a waterless alcohol-based surgical hand rub to be considered effective?

Accepted Answer

60–95% alcohol

Answer

The CDC recommends alcohol-based hand hygiene products containing 60–95% alcohol for effective antimicrobial activity.

Question 2

In the OR, which surface is considered a critical zone requiring the highest level of environmental decontamination between cases?

Accepted Answer

The operating table and immediately surrounding sterile field areas

Answer

The operating table and areas directly involved in patient contact are critical zones requiring thorough terminal decontamination between cases.

Question 3

Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive flexible endoscopes used in the OR?

Accepted Answer

Low-temperature hydrogen peroxide gas plasma (Sterrad) or ethylene oxide (EtO)

Answer

Heat-sensitive devices like flexible endoscopes require low-temperature sterilization methods such as hydrogen peroxide plasma or EtO.

Question 4

A scrub person's sterile gown is torn above the elbow during a case. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately leave the sterile field, change the gown, and re-glove before returning

Answer

A torn or wet gown is no longer considered sterile and requires immediate replacement before the team member can continue in the sterile field.

Question 5

Which action is required when a sterile package is found with a small hole or tear before opening?

Accepted Answer

The package must be considered contaminated and returned to SPD for reprocessing

Answer

Any compromised packaging — holes, tears, moisture, or missing seals — renders the item non-sterile and it must be reprocessed.

CNOR - Certification Exam Practice Test