DAANCE Infection Control and Sterilization in the Anesthesia Setting

Question 1

According to OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogen Standard, which item must be placed in a puncture-resistant container immediately after use in the anesthesia setting?

Accepted Answer

Used syringes with needles still attached

Answer

Contaminated gauze pads

Answer

Single-use breathing circuit tubing

Answer

Disposable gloves

Question 2

Which sterilization method is considered the gold standard for heat-stable dental anesthesia instruments such as metal laryngoscope blades?

Accepted Answer

Steam autoclave (moist heat) sterilization

Answer

Cold chemical (glutaraldehyde) soaking

Answer

Dry heat oven at 160°C

Answer

UV light cabinet

Question 3

After removing gloves during post-anesthesia cleanup, the dental anesthesia assistant should:

Accepted Answer

Perform hand hygiene with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub

Answer

Apply hand sanitizer only if hands appear visibly soiled

Answer

Rinse hands with cold water for 5 seconds

Answer

Don a new pair of gloves without washing hands

Question 4

Which of the following is the correct sequence for reprocessing a reusable anesthesia mask?

Accepted Answer

Clean → disinfect or sterilize → inspect → store

Answer

Sterilize → clean → inspect → store

Answer

Rinse → sterilize → clean → package

Answer

Disinfect → rinse → clean → sterilize

Question 5

Personal protective equipment (PPE) required for the dental anesthesia assistant during IV placement includes:

Accepted Answer

Gloves and a face shield or mask with protective eyewear

Answer

Gloves only, since the oral cavity is not entered

Answer

A full face respirator and a gown

Answer

No PPE is required for IV access procedures

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'zone control' in the dental anesthesia operatory?

Accepted Answer

Separating sterile instrument zones from contaminated zones to prevent cross-contamination

Answer

Designating separate zones for patients of different ASA classifications

Answer

Controlling temperature zones to preserve anesthetic agents

Answer

Marking floor zones to guide patient traffic flow