Free MDRAO Sterile Storage, Handling, and Distribution Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What are the ideal environmental conditions for a sterile storage area?
- High humidity and warm temperature to prevent dust.
- Positive air pressure, with controlled temperature and humidity. (Correct answer)
- Negative air pressure to contain contaminants.
- Open windows for maximum air circulation.
Correct answer: Positive air pressure, with controlled temperature and humidity.
Sterile storage areas should have positive air pressure relative to adjacent areas to prevent airborne contaminants from entering. Temperature and humidity must also be controlled (e.g., temp below 24°C, humidity 30-60%) to protect the integrity of sterile packaging and prevent microbial growth.
Question 2: The shelf life of a sterilized package is considered to be:
- Exactly 30 days from the date of sterilization.
- Determined by the colour of the wrapping material.
- Event-related, not time-related. (Correct answer)
- Indefinite, as long as it remains in the hospital.
Correct answer: Event-related, not time-related.
Modern standards recognize that sterility is 'event-related,' meaning an item remains sterile until an event compromises the package integrity. Such events include punctures, moisture contamination, or excessive handling, rather than the simple passage of a predetermined amount of time.
Question 3: According to CSA standards, how far from the floor should the bottom shelf in a sterile storage area be?
- At least 2 cm (1 inch).
- At least 10 cm (4 inches).
- At least 25 cm (10 inches). (Correct answer)
- It can be placed directly on the floor if the floor is clean.
Correct answer: At least 25 cm (10 inches).
Storing sterile items at least 25 cm (10 inches) off the floor protects them from contamination during floor cleaning and from ambient floor-level contaminants. This clearance also allows for proper air circulation and effective cleaning underneath the shelving units.
Question 4: When handling a sterile package, what is the most important principle to follow?
- Handle it as much as possible to check for tears.
- Ensure your hands are clean and handle it as little as possible. (Correct answer)
- Shake the package to ensure the contents are secure.
- Place it under your arm for secure transport.
Correct answer: Ensure your hands are clean and handle it as little as possible.
Every time a sterile package is handled, there is a risk of compromising its integrity. It is crucial to have clean, dry hands and to handle the package minimally, supporting it from the bottom and avoiding crushing, bending, or dropping it.
Question 5: The principle of 'First In, First Out' (FIFO) in sterile storage ensures that:
- The newest items are used first to test new equipment.
- The oldest sterile supplies are used first. (Correct answer)
- Items are arranged based on the surgeon's preference.
- Items are randomly selected to ensure variety.
Correct answer: The oldest sterile supplies are used first.
FIFO is a stock rotation method where the items that were sterilized and placed in storage first are the first ones to be removed for use. This system helps minimize the chance of packages expiring (if using time-related dating) and reduces the potential for damage from prolonged storage.
Question 6: When transporting sterile items on a cart, how should they be protected?
- They should be placed on an open cart for easy visibility.
- They should be covered with a clean, impervious cover or transported in a closed cart. (Correct answer)
- They can be mixed with soiled items as long as they are on a different shelf.
- They should be carried by hand to avoid cart contamination.
Correct answer: They should be covered with a clean, impervious cover or transported in a closed cart.
During transport outside of the sterile storage area, sterile items are vulnerable to environmental contamination from dust, moisture, and physical damage. Using a dedicated, closed cart or placing a clean, impervious cover over the items on an open cart provides a crucial barrier against these contaminants.
Question 7: Before distributing a sterile item to the user, what must the MDRD technician verify?
- The surgeon's name is written on the package.
- The package is cool to the touch.
- The package integrity is intact (no holes, tears, or moisture) and the external indicator has changed colour. (Correct answer)
- The item is the most expensive one available.
Correct answer: The package integrity is intact (no holes, tears, or moisture) and the external indicator has changed colour.
The final check before an item is sent to the user is critical for patient safety. The technician must inspect the package for any signs of compromise like holes, tears, broken seals, or water stains, and confirm the external chemical indicator has made the expected colour change.
Free MDRAO Sterile Storage, Handling, and Distribution Questions and Answers
What are the ideal environmental conditions for a sterile storage area?