HSPA Decontamination and Cleaning Processes 2

Question 1

What is the first step in decontamination for soiled surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Point-of-use pre-treatment to prevent bioburden from drying

Answer

Point-of-use pre-treatment prevents blood and tissue from drying on surfaces, making subsequent cleaning more effective.

Question 2

What minimum water temperature is typically required for thermal disinfection in a washer-disinfector?

Accepted Answer

180°F (82°C)

Answer

Thermal disinfection requires water temperatures of at least 180°F (82°C) to achieve high-level disinfection.

Question 3

Why must aluminum instruments be segregated during decontamination?

Accepted Answer

Alkaline detergents can cause corrosion and discoloration of aluminum

Answer

Aluminum reacts with alkaline detergents, causing pitting, corrosion, and discoloration, so neutral pH detergents must be used.

Question 4

What is the purpose of the lubrication step (milk bath) in instrument processing?

Accepted Answer

To protect moving parts and prevent corrosion with a water-soluble lubricant

Answer

Instrument milk coats surfaces and joints to prevent corrosion, reduce friction, and extend instrument life.

Question 5

What determines the minimum exposure time for manual cleaning with enzymatic detergent?

Accepted Answer

The time specified by the detergent manufacturer's IFU

Answer

Enzymatic detergent soak times must follow the manufacturer's IFU, as different formulations require different contact times.

(HSPA) Healthcare Sterile Processing Association Certification Practice Test