Packaging and Sterile Barrier Systems Flashcards
7 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 7 Packaging and Sterile Barrier Systems flashcards as text
Which sterilization method requires special packaging materials that are permeable to the sterilant gas?
Answer: Ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization
EO sterilization requires packaging permeable to ethylene oxide gas so the sterilant can penetrate and contact all surfaces of the device.
When wrapping instruments using the square (envelope) fold technique, how many wraps are typically used to achieve an aseptic presentation?
Answer: Two wraps (sequential or simultaneous)
The sequential double-wrap method creates two separate sterile barriers and allows aseptic delivery to the sterile field.
A technician notices that a peel pouch has a 'channel seal' defect after sterilization. What is the correct action?
Answer: Reject the pack, reprocess the item, and repackage it
A channel seal (incomplete seal) compromises the sterile barrier; the item must be rejected, reprocessed, and repackaged in new packaging.
What is the primary reason instruments should not be packaged while still wet after washing?
Answer: Moisture can prevent sterilant penetration and support microbial growth
Residual moisture can create wet packs during steam sterilization and may support microbial growth, compromising sterility.
Which labeling information is REQUIRED on a sterile package according to best practices?
Answer: Sterilizer number, cycle number, load number, and date
Packages must be traceable; required label data includes sterilizer ID, load/cycle number, and the date processed to support recall and traceability.
Nonwoven polypropylene wrap is preferred over woven textile wrap for sterile packaging primarily because it:
Answer: Provides a superior, consistent microbial barrier and is lint-free
Nonwoven wrap offers a more reliable, consistent microbial barrier and is lint-free compared to woven textiles, reducing contamination risk.
What action should be taken if a package is found to have a torn or punctured wrapper before it is opened for use?
Answer: Consider the item non-sterile and send it for reprocessing
Any breach in packaging integrity means sterility cannot be assumed; the item must be reprocessed regardless of the chemical indicator status.