Decontamination and Cleaning Processes Flashcards
6 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 6 Decontamination and Cleaning Processes flashcards as text
Which of the following represents a critical step to prevent cross-contamination in the decontamination area?
Answer: Maintaining strict one-way workflow from dirty to clean
A strict one-way workflow from the dirty/contaminated receiving area to the clean preparation area is essential to prevent cross-contamination in the decontamination zone.
What is the recommended water temperature for enzymatic detergent solutions during instrument soaking?
Answer: 35–45°C (warm) to optimize enzyme activity
Enzymatic detergents work optimally at 35–45°C. Temperatures above 60°C denature the enzymes, rendering them ineffective.
According to Ontario healthcare regulations, what PPE is mandatory for staff working in the decontamination area?
Answer: Waterproof gown, gloves, face shield/goggles, and waterproof footwear
Staff in the decontamination area handle contaminated instruments and must wear full PPE including waterproof gown, utility gloves, face shield or goggles, and waterproof footwear to protect against exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
What is ultrasonic cleaning, and what type of soil is it most effective at removing from instruments?
Answer: A cleaning method using high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles that dislodge soil from instrument crevices
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves (20–50 kHz) to create cavitation — tiny imploding bubbles that dislodge soil from instrument surfaces and crevices that manual cleaning may miss.
Which statement best describes the concept of 'thermal disinfection' as measured by the A0 value?
Answer: A0 value is a measure of equivalent lethal heat exposure, where A0=600 represents 1 minute at 90°C
The A0 value is a measure of equivalent lethal heat exposure during thermal disinfection. An A0 of 600 is achieved by 1 minute at 90°C or an equivalent combination of time and temperature using z=10°C.
What is the correct action when an instrument is found to be visibly soiled after completing the automated washer-disinfector cycle?
Answer: Return the instrument to the decontamination area and repeat the cleaning cycle
Visibly soiled instruments after automated washing must be returned to the decontamination area for re-cleaning. Residual soil compromises sterilization efficacy and is unacceptable for patient use.