Assembly and Packaging Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real MDRAO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Assembly and Packaging Systems flashcards as text
According to AAMI ST79, how should peel pouches be oriented when loaded into a steam sterilizer?
Answer: On edge, paper-to-plastic, to allow steam penetration and condensate drainage
Pouches should be loaded on edge, paper-to-plastic, to prevent pooling of condensate and to allow adequate steam penetration through the paper side.
A reusable rigid container's gasket shows visible cracking and deformation. Which action is required?
Answer: Replace the gasket before using the container
A damaged gasket cannot form a reliable seal, allowing post-sterilization contamination; it must be replaced before the container is placed back into service.
What does the term 'sterilization load' configuration refer to?
Answer: The arrangement and density of packages placed in a sterilizer chamber for a single cycle
Load configuration refers to how items are arranged within the sterilizer chamber, which directly affects sterilant penetration, air removal, and drying.
Which packaging validation test confirms that a peel pouch seal meets strength and integrity requirements?
Answer: Peel-strength and seal-integrity testing per ASTM F88 or ISO 11607
ASTM F88 and ISO 11607 specify standardized peel-strength and seal-integrity tests used to validate that packaging systems maintain sterile barrier function.
Why should instrument sets be assembled by the same sterile processing technician whenever possible?
Answer: To ensure consistent accountability, familiarity, and accuracy in count and configuration
Consistent assignment builds familiarity with set configuration, reducing assembly errors and improving count accuracy and accountability.
What is the role of a count sheet (instrument checklist) in the assembly process?
Answer: It serves as a reference for instrument identification, quantity, and tray configuration verification
Count sheets provide a standardized reference that technicians use to verify each instrument is present, functional, and correctly positioned before packaging.
Which condition would cause a technician to reject a pre-formed peel pouch before loading an instrument?
Answer: The pouch has a small hole or channel visible along the heat seal line
A hole or channel in the seal creates a direct pathway for microbial ingress, rendering the pouch unable to maintain the sterile barrier.