Decontamination, sterilization method selection, and instrument tray assembly concepts tested on sterile processing certification exams.
40 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the first step in the sterile processing workflow?
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Decontamination of soiled instruments and equipment- Define decontamination in sterile processing.
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Removal of pathogenic organisms and infectious material from instruments to safe levels- What type of container is used for soiled instruments in the decontamination area?
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Rigid, leak-proof, puncture-resistant container or cart- Name the primary method used to remove bioburden from instruments.
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Ultrasonic cleaning- What is the recommended temperature range for ultrasonic cleaning?
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40 to 60 degrees Celsius (104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit)- How long should instruments soak in an enzymatic detergent before ultrasonic cleaning?
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Typically 5 to 10 minutes- What is bioburden?
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The total number of living microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, spores) on an instrument- Which sterilization method uses pressurized steam at high temperature?
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Steam sterilization (autoclave)- What is the standard temperature for steam sterilization?
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121 degrees Celsius (250 degrees Fahrenheit) at 15 to 17 pounds per square inch- How long does steam sterilization typically take for a wrapped tray?
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3 to 10 minutes exposure time, depending on density and contents- What does EtO stand for in sterilization?
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Ethylene oxide gas- Name an instrument material that cannot tolerate steam sterilization.
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Certain plastics and delicate optics- What is dry heat sterilization used for primarily?
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Powders, oils, and materials that cannot tolerate steam or moisture- At what temperature does dry heat sterilization typically occur?
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160 to 180 degrees Celsius (320 to 356 degrees Fahrenheit)- What is the standard chemical indicator on a sterilization package?
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A color-changing stripe that verifies the package was exposed to sterilization conditions
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