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

What is the primary source of microbial contamination in compounded sterile preparations?

Answer: Personnel

Personnel are the primary source of microbial contamination because skin, hair, and respiratory secretions shed microorganisms into the compounding environment.

What percentage of particles ≥0.3 microns does a HEPA filter capture?

Answer: 99.97%

HEPA filters are rated to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles that are 0.3 microns or larger in size.

Which disinfectant is most appropriate for routine surface disinfection in an ISO 5 critical zone?

Answer: Sterile 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA)

Sterile 70% IPA is the standard disinfectant for critical surfaces in an ISO 5 environment because it evaporates cleanly and does not leave residue.

Growth on a contact (settle) plate from environmental monitoring indicates:

Answer: Microbial contamination was present on a surface

Contact plates detect surface bioburden; any growth indicates microbial contamination that must be investigated and remediated.

Which class of microorganisms is most resistant to chemical disinfection?

Answer: Bacterial endospores

Bacterial endospores (e.g., Clostridium and Bacillus species) form highly resistant dormant structures that require sporicidal agents or sterilization to destroy.

For 70% isopropyl alcohol to achieve maximum disinfectant effectiveness, the treated surface should:

Answer: Remain visibly wet and be allowed to air dry completely

IPA requires adequate wet contact time to disrupt microbial cell membranes; wiping dry immediately negates its disinfectant action.