DANB DANB Chemical Disinfectants & Sterilants 3

Question 1

When using glutaraldehyde as a chemical sterilant, how should the solution concentration be monitored?

Accepted Answer

Using minimum effective concentration (MEC) test strips

Answer

By color change of the solution

Answer

By measuring pH with a standard pH meter

Answer

By checking the expiration date on the container only

Question 2

Which personal protective equipment is required when handling chemical sterilants such as glutaraldehyde or OPA?

Accepted Answer

Utility gloves, eye protection, and a face mask or respirator

Answer

Latex gloves and a surgical mask only

Answer

Standard nitrile exam gloves only

Answer

No PPE is required for diluted solutions

Question 3

What does 'contact time' mean in the context of surface disinfection?

Accepted Answer

The time the surface must remain visibly wet with the disinfectant

Answer

The time it takes to apply the disinfectant to the surface

Answer

The time between patient appointments

Answer

The shelf life of the disinfectant product

Question 4

Which type of chemical agent would be most appropriate for reprocessing heat-sensitive dental instruments that cannot withstand autoclave sterilization?

Accepted Answer

High-level disinfectant/chemical sterilant such as glutaraldehyde

Answer

70% ethyl alcohol

Answer

Low-level quaternary ammonium compound

Answer

Sodium hypochlorite at 1:100 dilution

Question 5

A dental assistant notices that the glutaraldehyde solution has turned yellow and smells different than usual. What should she do?

Accepted Answer

Discard the solution and prepare a fresh batch

Answer

Add more glutaraldehyde concentrate to refresh the solution

Answer

Continue using it since color change is normal with use

Answer

Test the pH before deciding whether to discard

Question 6

Which statement about iodophor disinfectants is correct?

Accepted Answer

They are intermediate-level disinfectants that require dilution per manufacturer instructions

Answer

They are classified as high-level disinfectants suitable for instrument sterilization

Answer

They can be used undiluted for maximum efficacy on all surfaces

Answer

They have no activity against mycobacteria or non-enveloped viruses

Question 7

According to dental infection control standards, which surfaces should receive chemical disinfection between patients rather than barrier protection alone?

Accepted Answer

Surfaces that are difficult to cover with barriers and were potentially contaminated

Answer

All hard surfaces in the operatory regardless of contamination risk

Answer

Only surfaces visibly soiled with blood or saliva

Answer

Surfaces that are touched by gloved hands exclusively