(MCQ) Flashcards

Which biological indicator (BI) organism is used to test the efficacy of ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization?

Answer: Bacillus atrophaeus

Bacillus atrophaeus spores are the standard biological indicator used to verify ethylene oxide sterilization cycles.

What does the acronym 'TASS' stand for in the context of ophthalmic surgery complications?

Answer: Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome

TASS (Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome) is a noninfectious inflammatory reaction caused by contaminated or improperly processed ophthalmic instruments.

Which type of water is recommended for the final rinse of surgical instruments before sterilization?

Answer: Distilled or deionized water

Distilled or deionized water is recommended for final rinsing to prevent mineral deposits and spotting on instruments.

What is the purpose of a Bowie-Dick test?

Answer: To test air removal and steam penetration in pre-vacuum sterilizers

The Bowie-Dick test verifies adequate air removal and steam penetration in dynamic air removal (pre-vacuum) steam sterilizers.

How long must event-related shelf life packages remain sterile according to AAMI standards?

Answer: Until the item is used or the package integrity is compromised

Event-related shelf life means sterility is maintained indefinitely as long as packaging integrity is not compromised.

Which process uses peracetic acid as its sterilant and is designed primarily for immersible instruments?

Answer: STERIS SYSTEM 1E

The STERIS SYSTEM 1E uses liquid peracetic acid and is designed to sterilize heat-sensitive, immersible instruments at low temperatures.

When should a loaner instrument set be processed before use in a surgical case?

Answer: Upon receipt, following standard decontamination and sterilization protocols

All loaner instruments must be decontaminated, inspected, and sterilized upon receipt regardless of their condition or stated sterility.