SPD Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield SPD facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary purpose of a count sheet in sterile processing? → To document the contents of instrument trays for completeness verification
2. Which standard provides guidance on documentation requirements for steam sterilization in healthcare facilities? → AAMI ST79: Comprehensive Guide to Steam Sterilization and Sterility Assurance
3. What is the primary goal of proper storage in SPD? → To maintain the sterility of instruments until they are used
4. Which document provides specific instructions for reprocessing a particular medical device? → Device manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU)
5. Which of the following workplace safety practices is mandated by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard for the decontamination area of the SPD? → Providing and ensuring the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
6. Which of the following is NOT part of the SPD workflow? → Patient diagnosis
7. What is the Spaulding Classification system used for in sterile processing? → Classifying medical devices based on infection risk to determine reprocessing level
8. According to the Spaulding Classification system, high-level disinfection is the required processing method for which category of medical devices? → Semi-critical items that contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin.
9. What tool is commonly used to inspect small or hard-to-see areas of surgical instruments? → Magnifying glass or lighted magnifier
10. During inspection, what should be done if an instrument is found to be damaged? → Remove it from the set and tag it for repair or replacement
11. Which of the following is NOT a focus during instrument inspection? → Ensuring proper labeling
12. To verify the cleaning efficacy of a mechanical washer-disinfector, a technician should use a: → Cleaning verification device, such as a TOSI.
13. Why is infection control critical in the SPD? → To prevent the spread of pathogens through medical instruments
14. What does 'case cart system' refer to in sterile processing operations? → A system for assembling procedure-specific instrument sets on mobile carts
15. What are the two main types of steam sterilizers used in healthcare facilities? → Gravity-displacement and dynamic-air-removal (pre-vacuum) steam sterilizers
16. When preparing to load a washer-disinfector, which of the following is an INCORRECT practice? → Ensuring hinged instruments are in the closed and locked position.
17. Which of the following is considered the first step in the decontamination process, beginning immediately after a surgical procedure? → Point-of-use cleaning.
18. Why is instrument inspection important in SPD? → To ensure instruments are ready for sterilization and meet quality standards
19. What is the recommended temperature range for the decontamination area in a sterile processing department? → 68-73°F (20-23°C)
20. Which of the following provides evidence-based guidelines and recommendations for infection prevention but does NOT have regulatory authority to enforce them? → Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
21. What is the significance of maintaining separate workflow areas (dirty, clean, sterile) in the SPD? → It prevents cross-contamination between processing stages
22. Which factor most directly affects the efficiency of the SPD workflow? → Proper scheduling and coordination with surgical services
23. Why is it important to document the specific sterilizer used (e.g., Sterilizer #2) on every load record? → To enable targeted recalls and investigations if a specific sterilizer malfunctions
24. Which type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in the decontamination area? → Fluid-resistant gown, gloves, face mask, and eye protection
25. What is a healthcare-associated infection (HAI)? → An infection acquired during the course of receiving healthcare treatment
26. What is the primary purpose of performing a Minimum Effective Concentration (MEC) test on a reusable high-level disinfectant solution? → To confirm the disinfectant is still potent enough to kill microorganisms.
27. What is the purpose of using a magnifying glass or lighted magnification during instrument inspection? → To detect minute cracks, pitting, burrs, and residual soil invisible to the naked eye
28. The process of cavitation, which uses microscopic bubbles imploding to dislodge soil from instrument surfaces, is characteristic of which cleaning method? → Ultrasonic Cleaner
29. What information should be documented when a loaner instrument set is received in the SPD? → Receipt date, vendor name, count, condition of instruments, and IFU availability
30. What is the purpose of using Biological Indicators (BIs) in sterilization? → To confirm the sterility of a processed load