IAHCSMM Sterile Storage and Distribution 5

Question 1

When a sterile item recall is issued due to a failed biological indicator, which records are essential to identify affected items?

Accepted Answer

Sterilizer load/lot numbers and distribution logs

Answer

Patient name and diagnosis records

Answer

Technician vacation schedules

Answer

Purchase order numbers from the supplier

Question 2

Which packaging material is most susceptible to damage from excessive humidity in sterile storage?

Accepted Answer

Paper/plastic peel pouches

Answer

Polypropylene pouches

Answer

Metal instrument cases

Answer

Stainless steel containment systems

Question 3

What does the term 'lot number' refer to in sterile supply management?

Accepted Answer

The unique identifier linking a sterile item to its sterilization cycle

Answer

The number of items in a single package

Answer

The department that requested the item

Answer

The manufacturer's catalog number

Question 4

Which of the following actions during sterile supply distribution would most likely compromise sterile integrity?

Accepted Answer

Carrying packages in bare hands without gloves in a clean corridor

Answer

Using a covered transport cart

Answer

Scanning barcodes before distribution

Answer

Checking external chemical indicators before issuing

Question 5

How should a CS department handle sterile supplies that were stored in a flooding event in the hospital?

Accepted Answer

Remove all affected items from service and reprocess

Answer

Dry the packages and return to service if seals are intact

Answer

Assess visually and use items with no visible damage

Answer

Extend the expiration date and monitor

Question 6

What is the recommended minimum number of air exchanges per hour in a sterile storage room?

Accepted Answer

10 air exchanges

Answer

2 air exchanges

Answer

4 air exchanges

Answer

20 air exchanges

Question 7

A sterile package is found with a heat seal that is partially open along one edge. What is the correct classification of this finding?

Accepted Answer

Package integrity failure requiring reprocessing

Answer

Minor defect — acceptable if contents appear intact

Answer

Operator error requiring documentation only

Answer

Acceptable if the item will be used within 24 hours