CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Preparation and Packaging Methods Questions and Answers

Question 1

A technician is preparing an instrument set in a rigid container. According to ANSI/AAMI ST77, what is the maximum recommended weight for the container, instruments, and any accessories combined?

Accepted Answer

25 pounds

Answer

ANSI/AAMI ST77 sets a 25-pound limit on the weight of a containment device, its instruments, and any accessories. This is to ensure that the container can be handled safely by personnel and to facilitate proper sterilant penetration and drying.

Question 2

When arranging peel pouches in a steam sterilizer, what is the correct orientation to ensure effective sterilization?

Accepted Answer

On edge, with the paper side of one pouch facing the paper side of the next.

Answer

Peel pouches should be placed on edge in a sterilizer rack. The correct orientation is paper-to-paper and plastic-to-plastic. This arrangement allows for adequate air removal, sterilant penetration, and drying.

Question 3

The concept of 'event-related sterility' is best described as:

Accepted Answer

A package is considered sterile until an event occurs that compromises the integrity of the barrier.

Answer

Event-related sterility is the modern standard, stating that a package remains sterile indefinitely unless an 'event' compromises the packaging barrier. Such events include tears, punctures, moisture contamination, or a broken seal.

Question 4

A surgical instrument tray is being wrapped using the sequential wrapping technique. What does this method involve?

Accepted Answer

Using two separate sheets of wrap, applying the first wrap completely before applying the second.

Answer

Sequential wrapping involves using two individual sheets of sterilization wrap. The tray is completely wrapped with the first sheet, and then the process is repeated with the second sheet, creating a package within a package.

Question 5

Which of the following packaging materials is appropriate for use in low-temperature hydrogen peroxide (VHP) sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Spunbond polyolefin/plastic pouches (e.g., Tyvek)

Answer

Hydrogen peroxide sterilization requires packaging materials that are compatible and allow penetration of the sterilant. Cellulose-based materials like paper and woven textiles absorb the sterilant and are therefore incompatible. Spunbond polyolefin (such as Tyvek) is non-cellulose and designed for use with VHP sterilizers.

CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Practice Test

CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Practice Test

CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Preparation and Packaging Methods Questions and Answers