MDRAO Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MDRAO facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The cleaning process in an ultrasonic cleaner is known as: → Cavitation
2. Assembly Area: All disassembled devices are inspected, reassembled tested, checked to confirm in working order, packaged appropriately, and labeled. → True
3. What is the primary purpose of a Type 5 Chemical Indicator (Integrating Indicator)? → To react to all critical parameters of the sterilization cycle
4. What are the ideal environmental conditions for a sterile storage area? → Positive air pressure, with controlled temperature and humidity.
5. Which of the following is an unacceptable packaging material for steam sterilization? → Polyethylene (plastic) pouches
6. Which documentation element is MOST critical to record when performing high-level disinfection? → MEC test result, contact time, date, technician ID, and device identifier
7. At a minimum, what information must be included on the label of a sterilized package? → A description of the contents, sterilizer ID, load number, and expiration date
8. The minimum recommended contact time for high-level disinfection with 2% glutaraldehyde at 20°C (68°F) is typically: → 20 minutes
9. What is a critical post-sterilization step required for items processed with Ethylene Oxide (ETO)? → Aeration
10. What is the primary purpose of a washer-disinfector's thermal disinfection cycle in instrument reprocessing? → To reduce microbial load to a safe level after mechanical cleaning
11. Pre-rinse (rehydrate blood and remove soil), wash (detergent), rinse, disinfection: → Washer disinfector cycles: 4
12. According to Ontario healthcare regulations, what PPE is mandatory for staff working in the decontamination area? → Waterproof gown, gloves, face shield/goggles, and waterproof footwear
13. In ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization, why is an aeration period required after the sterilization cycle? → To degas toxic EO residuals from the instruments and packaging before they are safe to use
14. What is the correct action when an instrument is found to be visibly soiled after completing the automated washer-disinfector cycle? → Return the instrument to the decontamination area and repeat the cleaning cycle
15. Which chemical agent has historically been the most widely used for high-level disinfection of flexible endoscopes? → Glutaraldehyde
16. What is the minimum required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for staff working in the decontamination area? → Fluid-resistant gown, gloves, face shield/goggles, and hair cover
17. Prions, the causative agent for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), are exceptionally resistant to: → Standard steam sterilization cycles.
18. Which of the following is an advantage of orthophthalaldehyde (OPA) over glutaraldehyde for high-level disinfection? → Less toxic vapor and reduced eye/skin irritation
19. Which of the following represents a critical step to prevent cross-contamination in the decontamination area? → Maintaining strict one-way workflow from dirty to clean
20. According to CSA standards, what is the generally accepted maximum weight for a wrapped instrument tray? → 11.4 kg (25 lbs)
21. Biofilm on medical devices is a significant concern for HLD because: → Biofilm protects embedded microorganisms from chemical disinfectants
22. The area where soiled equipment is received, disassembled to their smallest components, and decontaminated: → Decontamination Area
23. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST important when manually handling glutaraldehyde solutions? → Chemical-resistant gloves, face shield, and gown
24. What is the maximum recommended interval for changing the water in ultrasonic cleaners used during instrument preparation? → Every shift or more frequently if visibly contaminated
25. When transporting sterile items on a cart, how should they be protected? → They should be covered with a clean, impervious cover or transported in a closed cart.
26. The area where sterilized items are stored to prevent contamination prior to being transported to the user areas: → Sterile Holding Area
27. What water quality is recommended for the final rinse of surgical instruments in an automated washer-disinfector? → Treated/purified water (RO or DI water)
28. Once activated (mixed with activator), a typical glutaraldehyde HLD solution has a reuse life of: → 28 days
29. What is the primary purpose of performing a Bowie-Dick test in a pre-vacuum steam sterilizer? → To detect air leaks and ensure adequate air removal from the chamber.
30. What is the first and most crucial step in the decontamination process for reusable medical devices? → Manual cleaning