NBSTSA Sterile Technique & Asepsis 2

Question 1

Which sterilization method is preferred for heat-sensitive surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide (EtO) gas

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas sterilization is preferred for heat-sensitive items because it operates at low temperatures.

Question 2

What is the correct action when a circulator passes a non-sterile item over the sterile field?

Accepted Answer

Consider the entire sterile field contaminated

Answer

Any non-sterile item passing over the sterile field contaminates it because particles may fall from above onto the field.

Question 3

During case setup, sterile drapes must be placed on the back table by:

Accepted Answer

Unfolding them from the center outward while keeping hands above table level

Answer

Drapes are unfolded from the center outward while keeping hands above table level to prevent contamination of the sterile field from below.

Question 4

Which biological indicator organism is used to verify steam autoclave sterilization efficacy?

Accepted Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Answer

Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the standard biological indicator for steam (moist heat) sterilization monitoring.

Question 5

A flash (immediate use) steam sterilization cycle is appropriate for:

Accepted Answer

An instrument that was dropped and is urgently needed

Answer

Flash sterilization is reserved for emergency situations such as when a critical instrument is dropped and immediately needed, not for routine processing.

NBSTSA - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Practice Test

NBSTSA - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Practice Test

NBSTSA Sterile Technique & Asepsis 2