Sterilization & Infection Control Flashcards

Which level of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when handling contaminated surgical instruments in the decontamination area?

Answer: Heavy-duty utility gloves, fluid-resistant gown, mask, and eye protection

Decontamination area personnel must wear heavy-duty utility gloves, fluid-resistant gown, mask, and eye protection to protect against splash and sharps exposure.

The primary purpose of enzymatic detergents used during instrument decontamination is to:

Answer: Break down organic soil such as blood and protein

Enzymatic cleaners contain proteases and lipases that break down organic debris, making it easier to remove during washing.

When a surgical glove is punctured during a procedure, the scrub technologist should:

Answer: Immediately inform the surgeon, step away, remove the glove, inspect for injury, and apply a new glove

A punctured glove must be changed immediately after notifying the surgeon; the hand should be inspected for injury and proper hand hygiene performed before reglowing.

The recommended temperature range for storing sterile supplies is:

Answer: Between 64°F–75°F (18°C–24°C)

AAMI guidelines recommend storing sterile supplies at 64°F–75°F with relative humidity of 35%–70% to maintain packaging integrity.

Which of the following is a semi-critical item per Spaulding classification?

Answer: Laryngoscope blade

Laryngoscope blades contact mucous membranes and require at minimum high-level disinfection, classifying them as semi-critical items.

Proper terminal decontamination of the OR at the end of a day includes:

Answer: Wiping all horizontal surfaces and frequently touched areas with an EPA-approved disinfectant

Terminal cleaning involves wet wiping all horizontal and high-touch surfaces with an EPA-registered disinfectant to reduce microbial load.

Which factor most significantly affects the efficacy of chemical disinfectants?

Answer: Contact time and concentration of the disinfectant

Adequate contact time at the correct concentration is the most critical factor determining disinfectant effectiveness against pathogens.