CSPT - Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician Infection Control and Microbiology Questions and Answers Flashcards

Which hand hygiene technique is required immediately before donning sterile gloves for compounding Category 2 CSPs according to USP ?

Answer: Performing a surgical hand scrub or antiseptic hand rub for at least 30 seconds followed by a 30-second drying period

USP requires a thorough hand-and-arm wash followed by an antiseptic hand rub before sterile gloving to minimize bioburden introduction.

What is the role of the depyrogenation oven (dry heat oven) in sterile compounding as it relates to infection control?

Answer: It destroys bacterial endotoxins on glassware using temperatures of 250°C or higher

Dry heat depyrogenation at ≥250°C for validated time periods destroys pyrogens (endotoxins) on heat-stable items such as glass vials and syringes.

A surface contact plate used for environmental monitoring in a cleanroom returns a count of 12 CFU on the ISO 7 anteroom floor. Which conclusion is MOST appropriate?

Answer: The result exceeds the USP action level for ISO 7 surfaces and corrective action is required

USP sets action levels for surface monitoring; counts exceeding the threshold for the ISO class zone require investigation and corrective action.

Which personal protective equipment (PPE) item must be sterile when used for compounding Category 2 CSPs in an ISO 5 direct compounding area?

Answer: Sterile gloves

Sterile gloves are the only PPE component that must be sterile, as they directly contact critical sites; other garbing items are non-shed but not sterile.

Biofilm formation in water systems used for compounding poses a significant infection control risk primarily because biofilms:

Answer: Protect embedded microorganisms from disinfection and can continuously shed viable organisms into the water supply

Biofilms create a protective extracellular matrix that shields bacteria from disinfectants and antimicrobials, allowing continuous microbial shedding into water used for compounding.

Which condition is the primary driver for requiring enhanced sterility testing and extended environmental monitoring under USP for Category 2 CSPs?

Answer: The preparation is intended to be used beyond 12 hours for a high-risk patient population

Category 2 CSPs intended for extended use periods in vulnerable populations require enhanced quality assurance measures including sterility testing and rigorous environmental monitoring.

When a compounding technician experiences a needlestick injury during preparation of a hazardous CSP, what is the correct FIRST action per infection control and safety protocols?

Answer: Immediately remove gloves, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water, and report to occupational health

Immediate wound decontamination with soap and water followed by prompt reporting to occupational health is the first-line response to a needlestick to reduce infection risk and document exposure.