MDRAO Decontamination and Cleaning Processes 2

Question 1

According to CSA Z314 standards, what is the correct sequence for manual cleaning of surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Pre-rinse, enzymatic soak, scrub under water, final rinse

Answer

CSA Z314 requires instruments to be pre-rinsed to remove gross soil, soaked in enzymatic detergent, scrubbed under water to prevent aerosol formation, and then rinsed thoroughly.

Question 2

What water quality is recommended for the final rinse of surgical instruments in an automated washer-disinfector?

Accepted Answer

Treated/purified water (RO or DI water)

Answer

Purified water such as reverse osmosis (RO) or deionized (DI) water is recommended for the final rinse to prevent mineral deposits and staining on instruments.

Question 3

Which pH range is most effective for enzymatic cleaning detergents used in instrument decontamination?

Accepted Answer

pH 6–8 (near neutral)

Answer

Enzymatic detergents function optimally at near-neutral pH (6–8) which supports enzyme activity while being compatible with most instrument materials.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a washer-disinfector's thermal disinfection cycle in instrument reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

To reduce microbial load to a safe level after mechanical cleaning

Answer

The thermal disinfection cycle (typically A0 value ≥600) reduces microbial load on instruments after mechanical cleaning, making them safe to handle before packaging and sterilization.

Question 5

Why must hollow-lumen instruments such as endoscopes receive special attention during the decontamination process?

Accepted Answer

Lumens can harbour biofilm and organic material that standard surface cleaning may miss

Answer

The inner lumens of hollow instruments are difficult to clean and can harbour biofilm and organic debris if not properly flushed, brushed, and rinsed.

MDRAO - Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario Practice Test

MDRAO - Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario Practice Test

MDRAO Decontamination and Cleaning Processes 2