Quality Assurance and Safety Flashcards

When performing a phantom test on a Doppler ultrasound system, which parameter is most critical to assess flow sensitivity?

Answer: Minimum detectable velocity using a flow phantom

Minimum detectable velocity using a certified flow phantom directly measures Doppler sensitivity, which is essential for detecting low-flow states in peripheral vessels.

Which OSHA standard is most directly applicable to vascular laboratory staff who handle patient specimens such as blood?

Answer: 29 CFR 1910.1030 Bloodborne Pathogens

29 CFR 1910.1030 specifically governs exposure to bloodborne pathogens and mandates exposure control plans, PPE use, and hepatitis B vaccination offers.

A vascular lab's Doppler velocity measurements drift 15% higher than baseline over six months. The MOST likely cause is:

Answer: Transducer crystal degradation changing frequency output

Piezoelectric crystal aging or damage shifts the actual transmitted frequency, causing systematic velocity calculation errors because the Doppler equation uses the known center frequency.

When documenting an accreditation-required quality improvement (QI) project, which element is mandatory for ICAVL compliance?

Answer: Evidence of action taken based on findings and outcome reassessment

ICAVL requires that QI projects demonstrate a complete cycle: identifying the problem, implementing a change, and reassessing outcomes to confirm improvement.

Which cleaning agent is considered safe and effective for high-level disinfection of ultrasound transducers used in intravascular or endovascular applications?

Answer: Glutaraldehyde-based solution per manufacturer protocol

Glutaraldehyde (e.g., Cidex) achieves high-level disinfection required for semi-critical devices that contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin when used per protocol.

During ergonomic assessment of a vascular sonographer's workstation, which finding poses the GREATEST cumulative trauma disorder risk?

Answer: Scanning hand held with wrist in ulnar deviation for extended periods

Sustained ulnar deviation increases tension on extensor tendons and compresses the ulnar nerve, significantly raising the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders in sonographers.

In a vascular laboratory, the purpose of a written infection control exposure control plan (ECP) is to:

Answer: Minimize employee exposure to bloodborne pathogens through engineering and work practice controls

Per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1030, the ECP must describe the means by which the employer will minimize or eliminate employee exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials.