CRCST Instrument Processing 2

Question 1

Which enzyme is most commonly used in enzymatic detergents to break down protein-based bioburden on surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Protease

Answer

Lipase

Answer

Amylase

Answer

Cellulase

Question 2

During mechanical decontamination in a washer-disinfector, what temperature range is typically used in the thermal disinfection cycle to achieve pasteurization?

Accepted Answer

71–80°C (160–176°F)

Answer

55–60°C (131–140°F)

Answer

93–100°C (199–212°F)

Answer

121–134°C (250–273°F)

Question 3

A hinged instrument is opened before sterilization primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Allow steam or sterilant contact on all surfaces including box locks

Answer

Prevent the ratchet from locking during cooling

Answer

Reduce the weight load on the sterilization tray

Answer

Prevent instrument tips from touching each other

Question 4

Which of the following best describes 'critical' items in the Spaulding Classification System?

Accepted Answer

Items that enter sterile tissue or the vascular system and require sterilization

Answer

Items that contact intact skin and require disinfection

Answer

Items that contact mucous membranes and require high-level disinfection

Answer

Items used in the environment that require low-level disinfection

Question 5

What is the purpose of a biological indicator (BI) in sterilization monitoring?

Accepted Answer

To demonstrate that viable microorganisms were killed during the sterilization process

Answer

To verify the sterilizer chamber reached the correct temperature

Answer

To confirm that packaging integrity was maintained during the cycle

Answer

To measure residual moisture in the sterilized load

Question 6

When using ultrasonic cleaners, cavitation refers to:

Accepted Answer

The formation and collapse of microscopic bubbles that dislodge soil

Answer

The heating of water to remove protein bioburden

Answer

The use of high-pressure jets to flush instrument lumens

Answer

The chemical reaction between detergent and organic matter

Question 7

Which sterilization method is most appropriate for moisture-sensitive, heat-sensitive instruments such as flexible endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide (EO) gas sterilization

Answer

Steam sterilization at 132°C

Answer

Dry heat sterilization

Answer

Flash sterilization (IUSS)