CRCST Sterilization Methods 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of the Bowie-Dick test in steam sterilization?

Accepted Answer

To verify air removal and steam penetration in prevacuum sterilizers

Answer

The Bowie-Dick test verifies adequate air removal and uniform steam penetration in prevacuum (dynamic air removal) steam sterilizers.

Question 2

Low-temperature sterilization using ozone works primarily through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Oxidation of cellular components

Answer

Ozone sterilization destroys microorganisms through oxidation of cellular components including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Question 3

The sterilization assurance level (SAL) for medical devices is defined as a probability of not more than:

Accepted Answer

1 in 1,000,000

Answer

The SAL for sterile medical devices is 10⁻⁶, meaning no more than a 1 in 1,000,000 chance of a viable microorganism remaining.

Question 4

Which type of chemical indicator changes color based on exposure to specific sterilization parameters?

Accepted Answer

Class 5 — integrating indicators

Answer

Class 5 integrating indicators react to all critical parameters (time, temperature, and sterilant) and are designed to correlate with biological indicator performance.

Question 5

What minimum aeration time is typically required after EtO sterilization at ambient room temperature (20°C)?

Accepted Answer

7 days

Answer

At room temperature (20°C), EtO-sterilized items require approximately 7 days of aeration to reduce residual EtO to safe levels.

(CRCST) Certified Registered Central Service Technician Exam Practice Test

(CRCST) Certified Registered Central Service Technician Exam Practice Test

CRCST Sterilization Methods 3