CSFA Microbiology and Infection Control 3

Question 1

A patient with a known latex allergy requires surgery. The CSFA's FIRST priority regarding infection control and safety is to:

Accepted Answer

Ensure the OR is set up as a latex-free environment before the patient enters

Answer

The OR must be completely converted to a latex-free environment before the patient arrives to prevent anaphylaxis from airborne latex particles.

Question 2

Which of the following organisms is the most common cause of healthcare-associated surgical site infections?

Accepted Answer

Staphylococcus aureus

Answer

Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, remains the leading cause of SSIs in healthcare settings due to its presence on skin flora.

Question 3

A surgical instrument contaminated with blood falls to the floor during a procedure. The CORRECT action is to:

Accepted Answer

Hand it off the sterile field and obtain a replacement sterile instrument

Answer

Any item that falls below the level of the sterile field or contacts a non-sterile surface is considered contaminated and must be removed and replaced.

Question 4

The recommended minimum internal temperature for steam sterilization (gravity displacement autoclave) of wrapped instrument sets is:

Accepted Answer

121°C (250°F) for 15–30 minutes

Answer

Gravity displacement autoclaves typically require 121°C (250°F) for 15–30 minutes to achieve sterilization of wrapped instrument sets.

Question 5

Contact precautions are indicated for a patient infected with which of the following organisms?

Accepted Answer

Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE)

Answer

VRE requires contact precautions — gloves and gown for all contact — because it spreads through direct contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Microbiology and Infection Control 3