Decontamination Flashcards
7 cards from real CRCST practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Decontamination flashcards as text
Which pH range is generally preferred for detergents used in instrument cleaning to avoid damage to stainless steel?
Answer: Near neutral (pH 6–8)
Near-neutral pH detergents (pH 6–8) are generally preferred for stainless steel instruments as extreme pH can cause pitting, corrosion, or surface damage.
When should instrument lubricant (instrument 'milk') be applied during reprocessing?
Answer: After cleaning and rinsing, but before sterilization
Instrument lubricant is applied after cleaning and rinsing, before sterilization, to protect moving parts and extend instrument life.
What is the primary reason biofilm is particularly concerning in the decontamination process?
Answer: It is a matrix of microorganisms resistant to both cleaning and disinfection
Biofilm is a structured community of microorganisms encased in a protective matrix that significantly resists cleaning agents, disinfectants, and even sterilants.
A CS technician is cleaning box-lock instruments. Which action is essential to ensure thorough cleaning?
Answer: Opening all hinged instruments fully to expose all surfaces
Hinged instruments must be opened fully during cleaning to expose all surfaces in the box lock area where soil commonly accumulates.
Which statement about the decontamination sink workflow is correct?
Answer: A minimum of two sinks should be used — one for washing and one for rinsing
A minimum of two sinks is recommended: one for washing with detergent and a separate one for rinsing, to prevent re-contaminating clean instruments.
Which of the following represents a correct statement about point-of-use treatment of instruments?
Answer: Gross soil should be removed and instruments kept moist to prevent drying before transport
Point-of-use treatment involves removing gross soil and keeping instruments moist (using a moist towel or pre-treatment spray) to prevent soil from drying and hardening before transport.
What is the recommended action if a CS technician's glove is punctured while handling soiled instruments?
Answer: Immediately remove the glove, wash hands, report the incident per facility exposure protocol
A glove puncture is a potential exposure incident; the technician must immediately remove the glove, wash thoroughly, and report per the facility's bloodborne pathogen exposure protocol.