HSPA Point-of-Use Care and Transport

Question 1

What is the primary goal of point-of-use care for surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

To prevent soil from drying on instruments by keeping them moist and removing gross contamination immediately after use

Answer

To sterilize instruments at the bedside

Answer

To count instruments before sending them to SPD

Answer

To lubricate instruments after surgery

Question 2

What should be applied to instruments at the point of use to keep them moist?

Accepted Answer

An enzymatic foam, gel, or spray specifically designed for point-of-use pre-treatment, or a moist towel if pre-treatment products are unavailable

Answer

Sterile saline only

Answer

Bleach solution

Answer

Alcohol wipes

Question 3

Why should instruments never be allowed to soak in saline at the point of use?

Accepted Answer

Saline is corrosive to stainless steel instruments, causing pitting and surface damage that harbors microorganisms and weakens the instrument

Answer

Saline is too expensive for soaking

Answer

Saline causes instruments to become too slippery to handle

Answer

There is no reason to avoid saline soaking

Question 4

What is the correct container type for transporting contaminated instruments from the OR to SPD?

Accepted Answer

A rigid, leak-proof, puncture-resistant container with a secure lid that is labeled as biohazardous

Answer

Any available bin or basin

Answer

A clear plastic bag

Answer

Instruments should be carried on an open tray

Question 5

What PPE is required when handling contaminated instruments at the point of use?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, gloves appropriate for the task; additional PPE such as fluid-resistant gown, face protection, and heavier gloves may be needed depending on the splash and sharps risk

Answer

No PPE is required at the point of use

Answer

Standard exam gloves only

Answer

Only a mask is required

Question 6

What is the maximum recommended time between instrument use and the beginning of decontamination?

Accepted Answer

Instruments should reach the decontamination area as soon as possible, ideally within the timeframe specified by the facility's policy, to prevent soil from becoming fixed

Answer

No specific time limit exists

Answer

48 hours is acceptable if instruments are kept moist

Answer

Decontamination can wait until the next day