GI Safety & Infection Control 2

Question 1

Which level of disinfection is required for endoscopes that contact mucous membranes but do not penetrate sterile tissue?

Accepted Answer

High-level disinfection

Answer

Endoscopes are semi-critical items that contact mucous membranes and require high-level disinfection to eliminate all microorganisms except bacterial spores.

Question 2

A patient with Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) colitis is admitted. Which isolation precaution is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Contact precautions

Answer

C. diff is transmitted via the fecal-oral route through spores on surfaces and hands, requiring contact precautions with a private room.

Question 3

Why is alcohol-based hand sanitizer NOT effective against Clostridioides difficile spores?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol does not kill bacterial spores

Answer

Alcohol-based sanitizers are ineffective against C. diff because they cannot kill bacterial endospores; soap and water with mechanical friction is required.

Question 4

Before performing an upper endoscopy (EGD), which action is most important for infection prevention?

Accepted Answer

Verifying the scope has completed high-level disinfection

Answer

Verifying that the endoscope has completed high-level disinfection per manufacturer protocol is the critical step to prevent patient-to-patient pathogen transmission.

Question 5

A nurse preparing to change a colostomy bag should don which PPE as the minimum standard?

Accepted Answer

Clean gloves only

Answer

Standard precautions for ostomy care require clean (non-sterile) gloves at minimum to protect against contact with fecal material.

(GI) Gastrointestinal Practice Test

(GI) Gastrointestinal Practice Test

GI Safety & Infection Control 2