CIS Decontamination Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the difference between cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning removes soil, disinfection kills most pathogens, sterilization destroys all microbial life including spores

Answer

These represent escalating levels of microbial reduction: cleaning removes soil, disinfection kills vegetative pathogens, and sterilization destroys all life forms including spores.

Question 2

What is the significance of bioburden in the decontamination process?

Accepted Answer

Higher bioburden increases the challenge to the sterilization process

Answer

Bioburden is the population of microorganisms before sterilization. Higher levels present a greater challenge and increase sterilization failure risk if cleaning is inadequate.

Question 3

What precautions must be taken when transporting contaminated instruments?

Accepted Answer

Closed, puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers via designated routes separate from clean traffic

Answer

Instruments must be in enclosed, puncture-resistant, leak-proof containers with biohazard labels, transported via designated soiled corridors.

Question 4

What is the purpose of negative air pressure in the decontamination area?

Accepted Answer

To prevent aerosolized contaminants from flowing into cleaner adjacent spaces

Answer

Negative pressure ensures air flows into the decontamination area from cleaner spaces, preventing contaminated aerosols from migrating to clean areas.

Question 5

Why must instrument box locks be kept open during cleaning?

Accepted Answer

To allow cleaning solution to reach inner joint surfaces where bioburden accumulates

Answer

Opening box locks exposes inner joint surfaces where blood and tissue accumulate. Closed locks trap contamination that cleaning cannot reach.

CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Practice Test

CIS - Certified Instrument Specialist Practice Test

CIS Decontamination Questions and Answers 2