SGNA Infection Control and Safety

Question 1

According to SGNA guidelines, what is the minimum number of high-level disinfection cycles required for a flexible endoscope after each patient use?

Accepted Answer

One complete cycle following thorough manual cleaning

Answer

SGNA and AORN guidelines require one complete high-level disinfection (HLD) cycle following thorough manual cleaning with leak testing and channel brushing.

Question 2

Which step in endoscope reprocessing is considered the MOST critical for patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Manual cleaning (pre-cleaning and bedside cleaning)

Answer

Manual cleaning removes 99%+ of bioburden; without thorough cleaning, high-level disinfectants cannot penetrate biofilm and adequately disinfect the scope.

Question 3

What type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when manually cleaning contaminated endoscopes?

Accepted Answer

Gloves, fluid-resistant gown, face shield, and mask

Answer

Full PPE including gloves, fluid-resistant gown, face shield, and mask is required during manual cleaning to protect against splashing of contaminated fluids.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a leak test during endoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Detect damage to the endoscope's internal channels before disinfection

Answer

Leak testing detects defects in the endoscope's insertion tube or angulation covers that could allow fluid ingress, damaging internal components and harboring microorganisms.

Question 5

Which organism is most associated with outbreaks linked to inadequate duodenoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE)

Answer

CRE outbreaks linked to duodenoscope elevator mechanisms prompted the FDA to mandate enhanced reprocessing protocols and surveillance cultures for duodenoscopes.

SGNA - Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates Practice Test

SGNA - Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates Practice Test

SGNA Infection Control and Safety