IAHCSMM Decontamination & Cleaning Procedures 2

Question 1

What temperature range is typically used in a thermal disinfection (washer-disinfector) cycle?

Accepted Answer

80–93°C (176–199°F)

Answer

Washer-disinfectors typically operate at 80–93°C to achieve thermal disinfection, meeting A0 values required by international standards.

Question 2

Which type of bioburden poses the greatest challenge to the cleaning process?

Accepted Answer

Dried proteinaceous soil

Answer

Dried proteinaceous soil is the most difficult to remove because proteins coagulate and adhere strongly to instrument surfaces when allowed to dry.

Question 3

What does the term 'cleaning validation' mean in the context of CS/SPD?

Accepted Answer

Testing and documenting that the cleaning process consistently removes soil to acceptable levels

Answer

Cleaning validation is a documented process that confirms cleaning consistently removes contamination to predetermined acceptable levels.

Question 4

Ultrasonic cleaners work by which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Cavitation created by high-frequency sound waves

Answer

Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles that implode and dislodge soil from instrument surfaces.

Question 5

After manual cleaning, instruments should be rinsed with water at a minimum temperature of:

Accepted Answer

Warm (35–40°C / 95–104°F)

Answer

Warm rinse water improves detergent removal and promotes drying, reducing the risk of water spotting on instruments.

IAHCSMM - International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management Practice Test