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. A sterile package has been stored correctly but is found to be wet. What should be done? → Consider it non-sterile and reprocess the item
5. A technician discovers a crack in the barrel of a syringe plunger used in a surgical tray during decontamination inspection. What is the correct action? → Remove it from service, tag it as damaged, and send it for repair or disposal
6. When a sterile package is found with a hole or tear, what is the correct action? → Remove it from service and reprocess
7. What are the ideal environmental conditions for a sterile storage area? → Positive air pressure, with controlled temperature and humidity.
8. Which of the following is an unacceptable packaging material for steam sterilization? → Polyethylene (plastic) pouches
9. Which documentation element is MOST critical to record when performing high-level disinfection? → MEC test result, contact time, date, technician ID, and device identifier
10. According to MDRAO guidelines, which document is the primary reference for identifying correct reprocessing parameters for a specific device? → The manufacturer's Instructions for Use (IFU)
11. What is the primary purpose of a tamper-evident seal on a sterile package? → To provide visual evidence if the package integrity has been compromised
12. 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
13. During assembly, which action best prevents sharp instrument tips from perforating a peel pouch? → Using tip protectors or guards approved for sterilization
14. The minimum recommended contact time for high-level disinfection with 2% glutaraldehyde at 20°C (68°F) is typically: → 20 minutes
15. What is a critical post-sterilization step required for items processed with Ethylene Oxide (ETO)? → Aeration
16. Which of the following is an example of a chemical indicator (CI) used in sterilization monitoring? → An integrating indicator strip that changes color when exposed to sterilization parameters
17. 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
18. When identifying items for immediate use steam sterilization (IUSS), which factor must be documented to comply with MDRAO standards? → The reason IUSS was necessary, cycle parameters, and patient/procedure identification
19. Which federal agency in Canada is primarily responsible for regulating medical devices? → Health Canada
20. Which term describes the number of microorganisms on a device prior to sterilization? → Bioburden
21. Which temperature range is typically required for the wash phase of an automated instrument washer to activate enzymatic detergents without denaturing enzymes? → Between 40°C and 55°C
22. Pre-rinse (rehydrate blood and remove soil), wash (detergent), rinse, disinfection: → Washer disinfector cycles: 4
23. 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
24. 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
25. 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
26. Which chemical agent has historically been the most widely used for high-level disinfection of flexible endoscopes? → Glutaraldehyde
27. Which document outlines the minimum standards for reprocessing of reusable medical devices in Ontario healthcare facilities? → CSA Z314 Standard
28. What temperature range is recommended for sterile storage rooms? → 18–22°C (64–72°F)
29. 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
30. Prions, the causative agent for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), are exceptionally resistant to: → Standard steam sterilization cycles.