NBDHE Infection Control and Sterilization Flashcards

How frequently does the CDC recommend biological (spore) monitoring of dental sterilizers?

Answer: Weekly

The CDC recommends weekly biological monitoring of sterilizers using spore tests to verify ongoing sterilization effectiveness.

In what order should personal protective equipment (PPE) be DONNED in the dental setting?

Answer: Gown, mask, protective eyewear, gloves

PPE is donned in the order: gown first, then mask, protective eyewear, and gloves last to maintain barrier integrity.

Which sterilization method is MOST appropriate for heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive dental instruments?

Answer: Ethylene oxide gas sterilization

Ethylene oxide gas sterilization operates at low temperatures without moisture, making it suitable for instruments that cannot tolerate heat or steam.

What is the PURPOSE of an external chemical indicator (Type 1 process indicator) placed on a sterilization package?

Answer: Confirms that the package was exposed to the sterilization process

External chemical indicators confirm only that a package was exposed to the sterilization process, not that sterility was actually achieved.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is MOST notable for which environmental characteristic?

Answer: It can remain viable on dry environmental surfaces for at least 7 days

HBV can remain viable on dry environmental surfaces for at least 7 days, demonstrating exceptional environmental stability compared to other bloodborne pathogens.

Which type of sterilization monitoring provides the HIGHEST level of assurance that sterilization was achieved?

Answer: Biological indicators using resistant bacterial spores

Biological indicators using resistant bacterial spores (e.g., Geobacillus stearothermophilus) provide the highest assurance by directly testing the lethality of the sterilization process.

According to OSHA, contaminated sharps must be disposed of in:

Answer: Puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers labeled with the biohazard symbol

OSHA requires contaminated sharps to be placed immediately in closable, puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers labeled with the biohazard symbol or color-coded red.