NHA Infection Control and Safety 2

Question 1

Which disinfection level is required for semicritical medical instruments that contact intact mucous membranes?

Accepted Answer

High-level disinfection

Answer

Low-level disinfection

Answer

Intermediate-level disinfection

Answer

Sterilization

Question 2

What is the mechanism by which an autoclave sterilizes medical equipment?

Accepted Answer

Pressurized steam at high temperature (typically 121°C)

Answer

Chemical immersion in glutaraldehyde solution

Answer

Ultraviolet light exposure for 30 minutes

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas at room temperature

Question 3

When should gloves be changed during care of a single patient?

Accepted Answer

When moving from a contaminated body site to a clean body site on the same patient

Answer

Only when gloves become visibly torn or soiled with blood

Answer

Every 30 minutes regardless of activity

Answer

Only between different patients

Question 4

What is the correct procedure for disposing of a used needle after drawing blood?

Accepted Answer

Place the uncapped needle immediately into a puncture-resistant sharps container

Answer

Recap the needle using the two-handed technique before disposal

Answer

Break the needle at the hub to prevent reuse

Answer

Wrap in gauze and place in a regular waste bin

Question 5

Which PPE is minimally required when within 3–6 feet of a patient on droplet precautions?

Accepted Answer

Surgical mask worn over nose and mouth

Answer

N95 respirator and full gown

Answer

Gloves and gown only

Answer

Face shield without a mask

Question 6

What is the key difference between sterilization and disinfection?

Accepted Answer

Sterilization destroys all microorganisms including spores; disinfection reduces but may not eliminate resistant spores

Answer

Sterilization removes visible dirt; disinfection kills microorganisms

Answer

Disinfection is a higher level of decontamination than sterilization

Answer

They are interchangeable terms in clinical practice

Question 7

What is the immediate first-aid action after a healthcare worker sustains a needlestick injury from a patient?

Accepted Answer

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, then report immediately

Answer

Apply a tourniquet above the injury site

Answer

Pour bleach or antiseptic directly into the wound

Answer

Cover the wound with a bandage without washing