Introduction 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 Introduction flashcards as text
Which area of the medical device reprocessing department (MDRD) is considered the 'cleanest' and must be physically separated from other zones?
Answer: Sterile storage area
The sterile storage area must be kept separate and maintained at the highest cleanliness standard to prevent contamination of processed items.
What is the primary reason single-use devices (SUDs) should not be reprocessed unless following strict regulatory requirements?
Answer: The manufacturer validated them for one use only; reprocessing may compromise safety, sterility, and function
Manufacturers validate SUDs for a single use, and reprocessing may alter device integrity, leave residues, or fail to achieve sterility.
What does 'event-related sterility' mean in medical device reprocessing?
Answer: Sterility is maintained until the package is damaged, wet, or opened — not based solely on a calendar date
Event-related sterility means the sterile barrier is maintained until a physical event (damage, moisture, opening) compromises the package.
Which microorganism is considered the most resistant to sterilization and is commonly used in biological indicators for steam sterilization?
Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the most heat-resistant microorganisms and serve as the gold standard BI for steam sterilization.
A reprocessing technician notices rust on a surgical instrument during inspection. What is the most appropriate action?
Answer: Remove the instrument from service and report it for evaluation or replacement
Rusted instruments are compromised and must be removed from service because rust can harbor microorganisms and the instrument may fail during use.
What is the purpose of an enzymatic detergent in the cleaning process of medical instruments?
Answer: To break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in organic soil to aid cleaning
Enzymatic detergents contain enzymes that break down complex organic compounds, improving cleaning efficacy on contaminated instruments.
Which of the following is an example of a chemical indicator (CI) used in sterilization monitoring?
Answer: An integrating indicator strip that changes color when exposed to sterilization parameters
Chemical indicators change color or form in response to one or more physical or chemical sterilization parameters, providing immediate process confirmation.