Instrument Processing, Sterilization, and Monitoring Flashcards
6 cards from real RDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Instrument Processing, Sterilization, and Monitoring flashcards as text
Which disinfection level is required for semicritical instruments that are heat-sensitive?
Answer: High-level disinfection
Heat-sensitive semicritical instruments that cannot be sterilized must undergo high-level disinfection (HLD), which kills all microorganisms except large numbers of bacterial spores.
What does it mean when a sterilization pouch has an external chemical indicator that has NOT changed color?
Answer: The package may NOT have been exposed to sterilization conditions and should NOT be used
If the external chemical indicator has NOT changed color, the package may not have been exposed to sterilization conditions and should not be used on a patient until it has been properly processed and the indicator has changed.
Which method of sterilization is preferred for oil-based materials, petroleum-based products, and materials that are damaged by moisture?
Answer: Dry heat oven
Dry heat sterilization is preferred for oils, petroleum-based products, and moisture-sensitive instruments because it uses high temperature dry air without moisture that could cause corrosion or product breakdown.
What information must be included on sterilization packaging before processing?
Answer: Date of sterilization, sterilizer number/identifier, and load/cycle number
Sterilization packages must be labeled with the date, sterilizer ID (if multiple units), and load/cycle number to enable traceability and proper event-related sterility maintenance protocols.
What is the purpose of the holding/pre-soak solution used after instrument use but before cleaning?
Answer: To prevent blood and debris from drying on instruments, making cleaning easier and safer
Holding/pre-soak solutions (enzymatic or neutral pH) prevent blood, saliva, and debris from drying onto instruments, which would harden and make cleaning more difficult and less effective.
According to CDC guidelines, what should be done with a sterilizer that fails a spore test?
Answer: Remove from service, investigate the failure, have it repaired/serviced, and recall items processed since the last negative test
A failed spore test requires immediate removal of the sterilizer from service, investigation of the failure, professional servicing, and recall of all items sterilized since the last confirmed negative test.