Sterilization and Disinfection Flashcards
6 cards from real HSPA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Sterilization and Disinfection flashcards as text
What is the mechanism of hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization?
Answer: H2O2 vapor diffuses through load, then RF energy creates plasma generating free radicals that destroy organisms
H2O2 vapor kills by oxidation, then RF energy creates a plasma state with additional free radical microbicidal action.
Why is cellulose packaging incompatible with H2O2 gas plasma sterilization?
Answer: Cellulose absorbs hydrogen peroxide, reducing sterilant concentration below effective levels
Cellulose fibers absorb H2O2 from the vapor phase, reducing concentration below validated levels.
What is ethylene oxide sterilization primarily used for?
Answer: Heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive devices incompatible with steam or H2O2 plasma
ETO is for devices that cannot withstand heat and moisture from other sterilization methods.
What is a Class 5 integrating indicator?
Answer: Responds to all critical parameters and correlates with BI kill, providing highest chemical monitoring
Class 5 indicators respond to all critical variables and correlate with biological indicator performance.
What is the required aeration time after ETO sterilization?
Answer: Minimum 8-12 hours at 50-60°C in a mechanical aerator
Mechanical aeration at elevated temperature removes residual toxic ETO absorbed by device materials.
What is the Spaulding classification system?
Answer: Risk-based classification of devices as critical, semi-critical, or non-critical guiding reprocessing decisions
Spaulding classifies by infection risk: critical (sterilize), semi-critical (HLD minimum), non-critical (low-level disinfect).