NCMA Infection Control & Sterilization 2

Question 1

Steam autoclave sterilization is effective because it uses:

Accepted Answer

Saturated steam under pressure at 121°C (250°F)

Answer

Autoclaving uses saturated steam under pressure (typically 121°C at 15 psi for 15–30 minutes) to denature proteins and destroy all microbial life including spores.

Question 2

Which chemical indicator confirms that a package has been exposed to the sterilization process?

Accepted Answer

Chemical indicator tape

Answer

Chemical indicator tape on the outside of a package changes color when exposed to the sterilization conditions, confirming the package was processed.

Question 3

Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization is preferred for which type of item?

Accepted Answer

Heat-sensitive equipment such as endoscopes and plastics

Answer

Ethylene oxide sterilizes at low temperatures and is therefore used for heat-sensitive items like plastics, rubber, and delicate electronic equipment.

Question 4

The Spaulding Classification categorizes medical instruments into three groups. Which category requires sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Critical items

Answer

Critical items (those entering sterile tissue or the vascular system, such as surgical instruments and needles) must be sterilized to prevent infection.

Question 5

How long should a medical assistant scrub their hands using the surgical hand scrub technique?

Accepted Answer

3–5 minutes

Answer

The surgical hand scrub involves scrubbing hands and forearms for 3–5 minutes (or per facility protocol) to achieve surgical asepsis before sterile procedures.

NCMA - Nationally Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test

NCMA - Nationally Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test

NCMA Infection Control & Sterilization 2