CRCST Surgical Instrumentation 2

Question 1

What is the most critical first step in processing surgical instruments immediately after a procedure?

Accepted Answer

Perform point-of-use pre-cleaning to prevent soil from drying

Answer

Place instruments directly into the autoclave for sterilization

Answer

Apply instrument lubricant before transporting to decontamination

Answer

Wrap and package instruments for the next procedure

Question 2

What type of lubricant is appropriate for use on surgical instruments after cleaning?

Accepted Answer

Water-soluble instrument milk or lubricant

Answer

Petroleum-based grease for maximum long-term protection

Answer

WD-40 or similar penetrating oil sprays

Answer

Mineral oil applied generously to all surfaces

Question 3

Pitting corrosion on surgical instruments is most commonly caused by:

Accepted Answer

Contact with chloride-containing solutions such as saline or blood left on surfaces

Answer

Excessive steam sterilization cycles over many years

Answer

Use of water-soluble lubricants after cleaning

Answer

Exposure to high-pH instrument cleaning solutions

Question 4

What is the correct method for testing surgical scissors for proper sharpness and alignment?

Accepted Answer

Attempt to cut through dry gauze along the full blade length and check for smooth, snag-free cutting

Answer

Cut through a piece of cloth and look for fraying

Answer

Cut lightly salted gauze while checking blade efficiency

Answer

Visually inspect the blades for visible nicks under bright light only

Question 5

The 'passive film' on stainless steel surgical instruments provides corrosion resistance because it consists of:

Accepted Answer

A chromium oxide layer that forms naturally on the surface

Answer

A thin coating of nickel applied during manufacturing

Answer

A layer of carbon steel reinforcement inside the alloy

Answer

A factory-applied protective lacquer over the metal

Question 6

An instrument should be removed from service and sent for repair or disposal when:

Accepted Answer

Inspection reveals cracks, broken tips, misalignment, or functional failure

Answer

It has been used in more than 100 procedures regardless of condition

Answer

It has been sterilized more than 50 times

Answer

It is more than one year old

Question 7

During steam sterilization, hinged instruments such as scissors and clamps must be positioned:

Accepted Answer

Open so steam can contact and penetrate all internal surfaces including the box lock

Answer

Fully closed to protect the tips from damage during the cycle

Answer

Tip-down in a closed container to contain any residual soil

Answer

Wrapped tightly together in groups to save tray space