DANB Dental Instrument Sterilization 2

Question 1

Which sterilization method uses unsaturated chemical vapor at 270°F and 20 psi for instruments that may corrode in steam?

Accepted Answer

Unsaturated chemical vapor sterilization

Answer

Dry heat sterilization

Answer

Ethylene oxide sterilization

Answer

Glutaraldehyde immersion

Question 2

What is the minimum exposure time for unwrapped instruments in a gravity displacement steam autoclave at 250°F (121°C)?

Accepted Answer

30 minutes

Answer

15 minutes

Answer

20 minutes

Answer

45 minutes

Question 3

Which biological indicator organism is used to verify the efficacy of steam sterilization in dental settings?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Answer

Bacillus subtilis

Answer

Clostridium difficile

Answer

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Question 4

During instrument reprocessing, at what stage should instruments be inspected for remaining debris or damage?

Accepted Answer

After cleaning but before packaging

Answer

Before transport to the sterilization area

Answer

After sterilization but before storage

Answer

Only during annual audits

Question 5

What does a Class 5 integrating indicator verify during a sterilization cycle?

Accepted Answer

That all critical parameters of sterilization were met

Answer

Only that the package was exposed to heat

Answer

Only that steam penetrated the package

Answer

That biological organisms were killed

Question 6

Which cleaning method is recommended by the CDC for reusable dental instruments before sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical cleaning using an ultrasonic cleaner or instrument washer

Answer

Manual scrubbing only

Answer

Soaking in bleach solution for 30 minutes

Answer

Wiping with alcohol-based surface wipes