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

MEC test strips are used to verify that the glutaraldehyde solution maintains the minimum effective concentration required for high-level disinfection or sterilization.

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

Chemical sterilants are irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory mucosa; utility gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection (mask or respirator) are required when handling these agents.

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

Contact time refers to the minimum time the surface must remain visibly wet with the disinfectant solution to achieve the intended level of microbial kill.

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

High-level disinfectants or chemical sterilants like glutaraldehyde are used for heat-sensitive critical and semi-critical instruments that cannot withstand heat sterilization methods.

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

Color change or unusual odor indicates the solution has degraded and may no longer be effective; it should be discarded and replaced with a fresh, properly mixed solution.

DANB Infection Control Exam Practice Test

DANB Infection Control Exam Practice Test

DANB DANB Chemical Disinfectants & Sterilants 3