SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Quality Assurance and Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

A Class 5 chemical integrating indicator is used to monitor a steam sterilization cycle. After the cycle, the technician observes that the indicator has not reached the 'accept' window. What does this result signify?

Accepted Answer

One or more critical parameters of the steam sterilization cycle were not met.

Answer

A Class 5 chemical integrating indicator is designed to react to all critical parameters of a specific sterilization process (time, temperature, and steam). If it fails to reach the 'accept' zone, it indicates that one or more of these essential conditions were not achieved, meaning the load cannot be considered sterile.

Question 2

An SPD technician receives a loaner instrument tray from a vendor for a scheduled surgery. Which of the following is the MOST critical initial step for the technician to take to ensure patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Verify that the vendor has provided the manufacturer's Instructions for Use (IFU) for decontamination and sterilization.

Answer

Before any processing can begin, the SPD must have the manufacturer's specific, written, and FDA-cleared Instructions for Use (IFU). The IFU provides the validated parameters for cleaning, decontamination, assembly, and sterilization, which are essential for ensuring the device can be made safe for patient use. Processing without the IFU is a major safety risk.

Question 3

According to AAMI ST79, what is the recommended minimum frequency for performing a biological indicator (BI) process challenge device (PCD) test on a steam sterilizer?

Accepted Answer

At least weekly, but preferably daily, and in every implant load.

Answer

AAMI ST79 recommends that routine efficacy monitoring of steam sterilizers be performed at least weekly, with a preference for daily testing. Additionally, every load containing an implantable device must be monitored with a BI PCD.

Question 4

A positive biological indicator (BI) result occurs after a steam sterilization cycle. The technician has quarantined the load. What is the immediate next step in the recall procedure?

Accepted Answer

Identify and recall all items processed in that sterilizer back to the last known negative BI.

Answer

In the event of a positive BI, a recall must be initiated. The recall includes all items processed in the sterilizer since the last known negative (passed) BI test. This is because it's impossible to know exactly when the sterilizer began to fail. This 'window of liability' necessitates recalling all potentially non-sterile items.

Question 5

Which of the following workplace safety practices is mandated by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard for the decontamination area of the SPD?

Accepted Answer

Providing and ensuring the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Answer

OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) requires employers to protect workers from occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. A key component of this standard is providing, at no cost to the employee, appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, fluid-resistant gowns, eye protection, and masks, and ensuring employees use it correctly.

SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Certification Practice Test

SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Certification Practice Test

SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Quality Assurance and Safety Questions and Answers