CSFA Aseptic Technique and Sterilization 3

Question 1

Which area of a wrapped sterile package is opened first when presenting to the scrub technologist?

Accepted Answer

The far flap, away from the scrub person

Answer

Opening the far flap first prevents the circulator's arm from passing over the sterile field when opening subsequent flaps.

Question 2

What chemical class do most high-level disinfectants (HLDs) used for endoscopes belong to?

Accepted Answer

Glutaraldehydes or ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA)

Answer

Glutaraldehyde and OPA are the primary HLDs used for endoscopes because they achieve high-level disinfection of semi-critical devices.

Question 3

A package sterilized by steam autoclave has a wet outer wrap upon removal. What should be done?

Accepted Answer

Consider it unsterile and reprocess

Answer

Wet packaging indicates condensation compromise and potential strike-through contamination, requiring the package to be reprocessed.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a chemical indicator (CI) placed inside a sterilization pack?

Accepted Answer

Confirm the pack was exposed to the sterilant parameters

Answer

Internal CIs confirm that the sterilizing agent penetrated the pack and reached the intended parameters during the cycle.

Question 5

Which of the following actions violates aseptic technique during surgical draping?

Accepted Answer

Reaching across the unsterile side to adjust a drape

Answer

Reaching across an unsterile area contaminates the sterile glove and gown, violating aseptic technique.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test