CRCST Instrument Processing 3

Question 1

A chemical indicator (CI) placed inside a wrapped instrument set serves what primary function?

Accepted Answer

Confirms the package was exposed to sterilization conditions

Answer

Guarantees the instruments inside are sterile

Answer

Measures the total microbial load on the instruments

Answer

Verifies the wrap is free from holes or tears

Question 2

The Bowie-Dick test is used to detect:

Accepted Answer

Air removal and steam penetration issues in pre-vacuum sterilizers

Answer

Failure of biological indicators to kill resistant spores

Answer

Chemical concentration levels in EO sterilization cycles

Answer

Residual moisture content in steam-sterilized packs

Question 3

Point-of-use treatment of contaminated instruments before transport to the decontamination area should include:

Accepted Answer

Removing gross soil and keeping instruments moist to prevent drying

Answer

Full sterilization in the OR using a flash sterilizer

Answer

Soaking in a high-level disinfectant for 10 minutes

Answer

Wrapping instruments in sterile drapes until processed

Question 4

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the decontamination area?

Accepted Answer

Utility gloves, face shield, fluid-resistant gown, and shoe covers

Answer

Sterile gloves and a surgical mask only

Answer

Examination gloves and safety glasses only

Answer

Sterile gloves, N95 respirator, and sterile gown

Question 5

What does the term 'bioburden' refer to in instrument processing?

Accepted Answer

The number and type of viable microorganisms on an unsterilized item

Answer

The weight of instruments in a sterilization tray

Answer

The chemical load of detergent residue on instruments after washing

Answer

The thermal resistance of spores used in biological indicators

Question 6

Stainless steel instruments with pitting corrosion are most likely damaged by:

Accepted Answer

Contact with saline or chloride-containing solutions

Answer

Exposure to steam at high temperatures

Answer

Improper lubrication with instrument milk

Answer

Ultrasonic cleaning at incorrect frequencies

Question 7

When preparing a peel pouch for sterilization, the paper-to-paper or plastic-to-plastic sealing method is avoided because:

Accepted Answer

It does not allow for proper peel-open technique without contamination

Answer

It reduces the sterilant penetration into the package

Answer

It causes the pouch to burst during the sterilization cycle

Answer

It does not meet labeling requirements for sterile packaging