SPD Sterile Storage and Transport 2

Question 1

What environmental monitoring should be performed in sterile storage areas?

Accepted Answer

Continuous temperature and humidity monitoring with documented readings and defined action limits

Answer

No monitoring is required

Answer

Only weekly visual inspections

Answer

Monthly air quality testing only

Question 2

What is the correct procedure for transporting sterile items between buildings or to off-site locations?

Accepted Answer

Use sealed, protective transport containers and vehicles with climate control to maintain packaging integrity

Answer

Place items in regular boxes and transport in any vehicle

Answer

Transport is unnecessary

Answer

Any employee can transport sterile items without special procedures

Question 3

How should recalled sterile items be managed in the storage area?

Accepted Answer

Immediately quarantine recalled items in a clearly marked segregation area and document the recall process

Answer

Leave them on the shelf until someone collects them

Answer

Return them to the decontamination area

Answer

Discard them in regular waste

Question 4

What is the significance of positive air pressure in sterile storage areas?

Accepted Answer

Positive pressure prevents unfiltered air from flowing into the storage area, reducing airborne contamination risk

Answer

It helps cool the room

Answer

Positive pressure is only needed in operating rooms

Answer

Air pressure has no effect on sterile storage

Question 5

How should implantable devices be managed differently in sterile storage compared to standard instruments?

Accepted Answer

Implants require separate tracking, biological indicator verification before release, and often dedicated secure storage

Answer

Implants are stored the same as all other items

Answer

Implants do not need to be stored in sterile storage

Answer

Implants only need visual inspection before use

Question 6

What should be done when the sterile storage area experiences a power outage affecting HVAC systems?

Accepted Answer

Document the duration and conditions, assess items for compromised integrity based on temperature/humidity excursions, and implement contingency protocols

Answer

Nothing — power outages do not affect sterile items

Answer

Immediately discard all stored items

Answer

Wait until power returns without assessment