IAHCSMM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield IAHCSMM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary advantage of using a computerized inventory management system in central service? → It provides real-time tracking of supply levels and usage patterns
2. When using the sequential (double) wrap method, the second wrap is applied: → At a 90-degree angle to the first wrap for maximum coverage
3. Ultrasonic cleaners work by which mechanism? → Cavitation created by high-frequency sound waves
4. What is the recommended temperature and humidity range for sterile storage areas? → 20–25°C (68–77°F) and less than 70% relative humidity
5. What is the purpose of using a lint-free cloth when manually cleaning instruments? → To prevent leaving fibers that could interfere with sterilization
6. Which biological indicator (BI) organism is used to test the efficacy of steam sterilization? → Geobacillus stearothermophilus (G. stearothermophilus)
7. What is the most important thing to think about while deciding where to put sterile storage? → The safety and sterility of the environment
8. In a sterile storage area, what is the recommended minimum distance that sterile packages should be stored from the floor? → 8 inches
9. An anomaly in the sterilization records is found by a central service technician. How should the technician proceed initially? → Report the discrepancy to the supervisor immediately
10. What does the term 'sterility assurance level' (SAL) of 10⁻⁶ mean? → One in one million chance a viable microorganism remains on a sterilized device
11. What is the recommended frequency for biological indicator (BI) testing of steam sterilizers? → Daily for all cycles, or with every implant load
12. How far from exterior walls and ceilings should sterile packages be stored? → At least 2 inches from exterior walls; 18 inches from sprinkler heads
13. What is the primary function of sterile packaging? → To maintain sterility from the point of sterilization to the point of use
14. Historically, the idea that a package's sterility is "time-related" is now ____. → Event Related
15. Agency that has the authority to step in when it comes to worker protection even in the absence of any legislation. → OSHA
16. What does the CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) credential from IAHCSMM represent? → Advanced leadership and management certification for CS supervisors and managers
17. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the decontamination area? → Full barrier PPE including gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection
18. Which of the following is a key responsibility of the CS department in the distribution process? → Ensuring the right items are delivered to the right location at the right time
19. What is the primary purpose of a par-level system in CS/SPD inventory management? → To maintain a set minimum quantity of supplies at each location
20. When should instrument count sheets be updated? → Whenever instruments are added, removed, or substituted in a set
21. How often should washer-disinfector efficacy be tested according to best practice? → Daily, using process challenge devices or soil test carriers
22. Which of the following is an example of a nonwoven packaging material? → SMS (spunbond-meltblown-spunbond) polypropylene wrap
23. What does a Class 5 integrating indicator measure? → All critical variables: time, temperature, and steam quality
24. Sterilized packages should be stored in which type of environment? → Low humidity, temperature-controlled, closed or covered shelving away from traffic areas
25. What is the purpose of event-related sterility maintenance? → Sterility is maintained indefinitely as long as the package integrity is not compromised
26. Which of the following best describes 'cycle counting' as an inventory management technique? → Counting a subset of inventory items on a rotating schedule throughout the year
27. A Central Service Technician finds some obvious biofilm on a surgical scissor while cleaning surgical instruments. Next steps for the technician to take? → Immerse the instrument in an enzymatic cleaner to break down the biofilm
28. What is the recommended action if an instrument cannot be fully disassembled for cleaning? → Follow the device IFU and use appropriate cleaning tools for all accessible areas
29. Which packaging material is incompatible with hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization? → Cellulose-based materials (paper/muslin)
30. What does 'first in, first out' (FIFO) rotation mean in sterile storage? → Oldest items (first sterilized) are used first to minimize shelf time