Practice Test Geeks(IAHCSMM) International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Manage Practice Test
← All IAHCSMM Flashcard Decks

(CRCST) 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 (CRCST) flashcards as text

  1. What is the minimum recommended water quality for use in the final rinse cycle of automated washers in sterile processing?

    Answer: Deionized or purified water

    Deionized or purified water is recommended for final rinse cycles to prevent mineral deposits and residue that could interfere with sterilization or cause patient harm.

  2. A sterile package is found with a small tear in the outer wrap. What is the correct action?

    Answer: Consider the package non-sterile and reprocess the item

    Any compromise to packaging integrity renders the item non-sterile; the item must be removed from service and reprocessed.

  3. Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive, moisture-sensitive devices such as certain flexible endoscopes?

    Answer: Ethylene oxide (EO) gas sterilization

    Ethylene oxide sterilization is performed at low temperatures and is suitable for heat- and moisture-sensitive items like flexible endoscopes.

  4. What does 'event-related sterility' mean?

    Answer: Sterility is maintained until the package is opened or its integrity is compromised

    Event-related sterility means that a properly packaged, intact item remains sterile until an event occurs that compromises the package, not simply based on a date.

  5. What is the purpose of a chemical integrator (Class 5) used inside a sterilization tray?

    Answer: To react to all critical sterilization parameters and provide a pass/fail result

    Class 5 chemical integrators respond to all critical parameters (time, temperature, steam) and provide a reliable internal indicator of sterilization conditions within the load.

  6. Which organization publishes sterilization standards most commonly referenced by US sterile processing departments?

    Answer: AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation)

    AAMI publishes the ST series of standards (e.g., AAMI ST79) that are the primary references for steam sterilization practices in US healthcare facilities.

  7. During ultrasonic cleaning, what process removes soil from instrument surfaces?

    Answer: Cavitation — formation and collapse of microscopic bubbles

    Ultrasonic cleaners use cavitation — the rapid formation and implosion of tiny bubbles — to dislodge soil from instrument surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas.