Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Infection Control and Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

An Orthopaedic Technologist is removing a K-wire from a patient's finger in the clinic. After the wire is removed, what is the MOST appropriate immediate action for disposing of the contaminated wire?

Accepted Answer

Place it directly into a designated, puncture-resistant sharps container.

Answer

Wipe it with an alcohol pad and place it on the instrument tray.

Answer

Hand it back to the physician to examine.

Answer

Wrap it in gauze and place it in the regular trash can.

Question 2

Which of the following methods is required to achieve surgical sterilization of instruments, such as pin cutters, that will be used in an invasive procedure?

Accepted Answer

Processing in an autoclave using steam under pressure.

Answer

Soaking in a high-level disinfectant solution.

Answer

Wiping thoroughly with 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Answer

Washing with antiseptic soap and hot water.

Question 3

An Orthopaedic Technologist is checking a patient's external fixator. Which of the following signs at a pin site is the MOST definitive indicator of a localized infection requiring medical attention?

Accepted Answer

Purulent drainage (pus) from the site.

Answer

Minor redness immediately around the pin entry point.

Answer

Clear, serous drainage upon cleaning.

Answer

Tenting of the skin up the pin.

Question 4

While setting up a sterile field for a joint aspiration, the technologist notices a small tear in the outer wrapper of a sterile gauze package. What is the correct course of action?

Accepted Answer

Discard the entire package and obtain a new, intact one.

Answer

Use the gauze since the inner contents are likely still sterile.

Answer

Cover the tear with a sterile gloved finger and then open the package.

Answer

Open the package carefully, avoiding the torn area.

Question 5

According to the principles of Standard Precautions, when should an Orthopaedic Technologist wear gloves?

Accepted Answer

When anticipating contact with any blood, body fluids, or non-intact skin.

Answer

Only when visible blood is present on the patient.

Answer

Only during invasive procedures like suture removal.

Answer

When interacting with any patient, regardless of the task.

Question 6

Which of the following describes the safest technique for an Orthopaedic Technologist to use when removing a cast with an oscillating cast saw?

Accepted Answer

Using a firm, in-and-out or "plunging" motion through the cast material.

Answer

Advancing the blade along a continuous line as if cutting with a knife.

Answer

Applying steady, continuous pressure in one spot to cut through quickly.

Answer

Ensuring the blade is slightly dull to prevent skin injury.