High-Level Disinfection Flashcards

What are the occupational health risks associated with glutaraldehyde exposure in the SPD?

Answer: Respiratory irritation, skin sensitization, eye damage, and potential long-term health effects from chronic exposure

Glutaraldehyde is a potent chemical that can cause respiratory distress, dermatitis, chemical burns, and sensitization, requiring strict ventilation and PPE controls.

What distinguishes an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) from manual HLD?

Answer: AERs provide standardized, reproducible cycles with automated cleaning, disinfection, rinsing, and channel perfusion that reduce human error

AERs automate the entire reprocessing cycle with standardized parameters, ensuring consistent channel perfusion and reducing the variability inherent in manual processes.

What is the purpose of performing biological testing on high-level disinfectant solutions?

Answer: To confirm that the disinfectant achieves the claimed level of microbial kill under actual use conditions

Biological testing using challenge organisms verifies that the HLD solution is achieving its intended germicidal effect under real-world conditions.

What precaution must be taken when switching between different brands or types of HLD chemicals?

Answer: Verify material compatibility with all devices being reprocessed and ensure thorough rinsing between different chemical systems

Different HLD chemicals may have different material compatibilities and can react with residues from previous chemicals, requiring thorough cleaning and compatibility verification.

How does temperature affect the efficacy of high-level disinfection?

Answer: Higher temperatures generally increase germicidal activity and may allow shorter contact times, while temperatures below minimum thresholds reduce effectiveness

Temperature directly influences chemical reaction rates — warmer temperatures enhance disinfectant activity, while cold temperatures can slow it below effective levels.

What documentation is required for each high-level disinfection cycle?

Answer: Complete cycle records including device ID, chemical lot number, MEC test result, soak time, temperature, rinse verification, and technician identification

Comprehensive documentation creates a traceable record linking each device to its specific reprocessing cycle, enabling investigation of any reprocessing failures.