NDAEB Infection Prevention and Control Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to Canadian dental standards, what is the primary purpose of using a biological indicator (spore test) in a sterilizer?

Accepted Answer

To confirm that the sterilization process is effectively killing highly resistant microorganisms.

Answer

To verify that the sterilizer is reaching the correct temperature.

Answer

To monitor the mechanical functions of the sterilizer, such as time and pressure.

Answer

To provide a visual confirmation that a package has been processed.

Question 2

A dental assistant is reprocessing instruments after a procedure. Which of the following is the correct first step in the instrument reprocessing cycle?

Accepted Answer

Careful cleaning of the instruments to remove bioburden.

Answer

Placing the instruments in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Answer

Wrapping the instruments in sterilization pouches.

Answer

Performing a biological indicator test on the load.

Question 3

During a restorative procedure involving a high-speed handpiece, a patient coughs, creating aerosols. According to Routine Practices in Canada, what minimum Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should the dental assistant be wearing?

Accepted Answer

Gloves, a fluid-resistant gown, a procedure mask with a visor or safety glasses.

Answer

Gloves and a clinical gown.

Answer

A procedure mask and safety glasses.

Answer

Gloves, a procedure mask, and a clinical gown.

Question 4

Which of the following items is classified as semi-critical in a dental setting and requires, at minimum, high-level disinfection, but preferably heat sterilization?

Accepted Answer

A reusable impression tray.

Answer

A surgical scalpel.

Answer

The dental light handle.

Answer

A blood pressure cuff.

Question 5

The concept of 'Routine Practices' in Canadian infection control is based on which fundamental principle?

Accepted Answer

All patients are considered potentially infectious, regardless of their medical history.

Answer

Only patients with a known infectious disease require special precautions.

Answer

Airborne precautions are necessary for all dental procedures.

Answer

Handwashing is only required after removing gloves.

Question 6

A dental office's steam autoclave fails a weekly biological indicator test. What is the immediate and most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Remove the sterilizer from service and review all sterilization procedures.

Answer

Continue using the sterilizer but increase the cycle time.

Answer

Record the failure in the logbook and re-test on the following day.

Answer

Send the biological indicator to the manufacturer for analysis.