IAHCSMM Flexible Endoscope Reprocessing 3

Question 1

What is the minimum contact time required for most glutaraldehyde-based high-level disinfectants at 20°C (68°F) to achieve HLD of flexible endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

20 minutes

Answer

Most 2% glutaraldehyde formulations require a minimum 20-minute contact time at 20°C to achieve high-level disinfection of endoscopes.

Question 2

Which pathogen has been most commonly associated with endoscopy-related outbreaks due to inadequate reprocessing of duodenoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)

Answer

CRE outbreaks have been linked to inadequate reprocessing of duodenoscopes, particularly due to the complex elevator mechanism that is difficult to clean.

Question 3

What is the purpose of performing a minimum effective concentration (MEC) test on a high-level disinfectant?

Accepted Answer

To confirm the disinfectant still meets the minimum required concentration for HLD

Answer

MEC testing confirms that repeated use has not diluted the HLD solution below the minimum concentration required to achieve high-level disinfection.

Question 4

Which endoscope component is unique to duodenoscopes and poses the greatest reprocessing challenge?

Accepted Answer

Distal tip elevator mechanism

Answer

The elevator mechanism at the distal tip of duodenoscopes creates hard-to-reach crevices that standard brushing cannot fully access, making it a high-risk area for contamination.

Question 5

An automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) should NOT replace which critical manual step?

Accepted Answer

Manual cleaning prior to AER processing

Answer

Manual cleaning must always precede AER processing because AERs cannot remove gross soil — they are designed to disinfect already-cleaned scopes.

(IAHCSMM) International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Manage Practice Test

(IAHCSMM) International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Manage Practice Test

IAHCSMM Flexible Endoscope Reprocessing 3