MDRAO - Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario Sterilization Methods and Monitoring Questions and Answers

Question 1

A Class 5 chemical indicator is used to monitor a steam sterilization cycle. What does a successful color change on this indicator signify?

Accepted Answer

That all critical parameters of the sterilization cycle (time, temperature, and steam) have been met.

Answer

That the pack has been exposed to the sterilization process.

Answer

That the sterilizer is effectively removing air from the chamber.

Answer

That there is no microbial growth within the processed load.

Question 2

A medical device reprocessing technician is preparing a load for a low-temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) sterilizer. Which biological indicator is most appropriate for monitoring the efficacy of this sterilization method?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Answer

Bacillus atrophaeus

Answer

Bacillus subtilis

Answer

Clostridium sporogenes

Question 3

A single, wrapped instrument is dropped on the floor in the operating room and is needed urgently for the ongoing procedure. Which of the following is the most appropriate action according to Canadian standards?

Accepted Answer

Send the instrument for Immediate-Use Steam Sterilization (IUSS) following all required cleaning and decontamination steps.

Answer

Wipe the instrument with a disinfectant and hand it to the surgeon.

Answer

The instrument cannot be used and a sterile replacement must be found.

Answer

Rinse the instrument with sterile water and place it back on the sterile field.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of performing a Bowie-Dick test in a pre-vacuum steam sterilizer?

Accepted Answer

To detect air leaks and ensure adequate air removal from the chamber.

Answer

To confirm the sterilizer reaches the programmed temperature.

Answer

To validate the lethality of the sterilization cycle against resistant spores.

Answer

To verify that the drying time is sufficient for the load.

Question 5

Which of the following sterilization methods is most suitable for processing heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive flexible endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Peracetic acid liquid sterilization

Answer

Dry heat sterilization

Answer

Pre-vacuum steam sterilization

Answer

Gravity displacement steam sterilization

Question 6

When monitoring a sterilization load, what type of monitoring provides a direct measure of the lethality of the process?

Accepted Answer

Biological indicators

Answer

Mechanical monitoring (printouts)

Answer

Chemical indicators

Answer

Physical monitoring (gauges)