Instrument Processing 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 Instrument Processing flashcards as text
Which factor most directly affects the efficacy of low-temperature hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) plasma sterilization?
Answer: The presence of moisture or cellulose materials in the chamber
Moisture and cellulose-based materials (like paper or gauze) absorb hydrogen peroxide, depleting it before sterilization is complete and causing cycle cancellations.
An instrument set is found to have a wet pack after steam sterilization. The correct action is to:
Answer: Re-wrap and re-sterilize the set before releasing for use
A wet pack is considered compromised because moisture can wick bacteria through the packaging material, so the set must be re-wrapped and re-sterilized.
The concept of 'event-related sterility' means that sterility is maintained until:
Answer: An event occurs that compromises package integrity
Event-related sterility holds that a properly packaged item remains sterile indefinitely unless an event such as tearing, wetting, or compression compromises the packaging.
Which of the following is the correct order of steps in instrument processing?
Answer: Decontaminate → Inspect → Package → Sterilize
The correct sequence is decontaminate (clean and disinfect), inspect and assemble, package, then sterilize to ensure instruments are clean before sterilant exposure.
Instrument lubrication with instrument milk (water-soluble lubricant) should be performed:
Answer: After cleaning but before sterilization
Lubrication is applied after cleaning and before sterilization so the lubricant can penetrate box locks and hinges and is compatible with steam sterilization.
Which type of water is recommended for the final rinse in automated washers to prevent mineral deposits and spotting on instruments?
Answer: Distilled or deionized (DI) water
Distilled or deionized water removes mineral ions that cause spotting, staining, and scale buildup on instruments during the final rinse cycle.
A rigid sterilization container's filter or valve should be inspected before each use to ensure:
Answer: It is clean, intact, and free from holes or damage that could compromise the sterilization barrier
Damaged filters or valves can compromise the sterilization barrier, allowing microbial contamination to enter the container after sterilization.