RDA Infection Control and Barrier Techniques 5

Question 1

What is the minimum water temperature required when washing hands with soap and water to achieve effective hand hygiene?

Accepted Answer

Warm water should be used, but temperature is not the primary factor

Answer

Warm water combined with proper handwashing technique (at least 20 seconds) is effective; water temperature alone does not determine pathogen elimination—technique and duration are the primary factors.

Question 2

Which surface barrier material is NOT appropriate for use on dental unit surfaces during patient treatment?

Accepted Answer

Paper toweling

Answer

Paper toweling is not an appropriate surface barrier because it is porous and can absorb fluids, allowing contamination to reach the surface underneath.

Question 3

During instrument processing, what is the purpose of the ultrasonic cleaner before sterilization?

Accepted Answer

To remove bioburden and debris that could shield microorganisms during sterilization

Answer

Ultrasonic cleaning removes bioburden and debris from instruments; organic material can shield microorganisms from sterilizing agents, so cleaning is essential before sterilization.

Question 4

A patient's medical history reveals they are HBV surface antigen positive. What infection control changes should be made for their appointment?

Accepted Answer

Standard precautions already account for this; no additional changes are required

Answer

Standard precautions are designed to treat all patients as potentially infectious, so an HBV-positive patient requires no additional infection control measures beyond routine standard precautions.

Question 5

Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive items such as rubber dam materials and certain plastic instruments?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide (EO) gas sterilization

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas sterilization operates at low temperatures and is suitable for heat-sensitive items that would be damaged by steam or dry heat sterilization.

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

RDA Infection Control and Barrier Techniques 5