Infection Prevention and Microbiology Flashcards
6 cards from real IAHCSMM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Infection Prevention and Microbiology flashcards as text
Which microorganism is used as the biological indicator challenge organism for steam sterilization?
Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores
Geobacillus stearothermophilus (formerly Bacillus stearothermophilus) spores are the standard biological indicator challenge organism for steam sterilization due to their exceptional heat resistance.
The chain of infection model is important to CS professionals because:
Answer: It identifies transmission routes that proper instrument reprocessing interrupts, preventing healthcare-associated infections
Understanding the chain of infection helps CS professionals see how proper decontamination and sterilization interrupts pathogen transmission routes, preventing HAIs.
Which cleaning agent is specifically formulated to break down protein-based soil (blood, tissue) and is most effective when used within its recommended temperature range?
Answer: Multi-enzyme detergent cleaners
Multi-enzyme detergents contain proteases, lipases, and amylases that chemically break down protein, fat, and carbohydrate-based soils on instruments, and are most effective at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer.
Biofilm formation on inadequately cleaned medical instruments is dangerous because:
Answer: Biofilms protect embedded microorganisms from detergents, disinfectants, and sterilants, potentially surviving reprocessing
Biofilms consist of microorganisms embedded in a protective polysaccharide matrix that significantly increases resistance to cleaning agents, disinfectants, and even sterilants.
Which type of hepatitis is most commonly associated with occupational exposure in CS workers handling contaminated sharps?
Answer: Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) has historically been the primary bloodborne pathogen concern for healthcare workers, and OSHA requires employers to offer HBV vaccination to all workers with occupational exposure.
Standard precautions in the CS decontamination area require CS workers to treat ALL items as if they are:
Answer: Potentially infectious regardless of the patient known infection status
Standard precautions require treating every contaminated item as potentially infectious regardless of any known or unknown patient diagnosis, protecting CS workers from unrecognized pathogens.