CRCST Progress Test Three (8th Edition)

The correct answer is decontamination. In the Central Service department, soiled instruments and other items are received. Decontamination is the process of removing or reducing the number of microorganisms on these items to a safe level. This is an essential step before sterilization can occur. Decontamination typically involves cleaning the items using detergents, water, and mechanical action to physically remove dirt, debris, and organic material. This helps to prevent the spread of infection and ensures that the items are ready for further processing and sterilization.

Central Service technicians must wear special attire referred to as PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to minimize their exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other contaminants. PPE includes gloves, masks, gowns, and other protective clothing that create a barrier between the technician and potentially infectious materials. This helps to prevent the transmission of diseases and ensures the safety of both the technician and the patients they are serving. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), TPA (Third Party Administrator), and CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) are not directly related to the special attire worn by Central Service technicians.

The correct answer is everyone entering the Central Service department. This means that the dress code applies to all individuals who enter the department, regardless of whether they are hospital employees, visitors, or spending a certain amount of time in the work area.

Central Service technicians assigned to the decontamination area should wear fluid-resistant gowns to protect themselves from splashes and spills. These gowns are designed to repel fluids and prevent them from seeping through to the technician's clothing, providing an additional barrier against contamination. Double-cloth gowns may not be as effective in preventing fluid penetration, while blue surgical scrubs and sterile operating room gowns may not have the same level of fluid resistance as fluid-resistant gowns.

Failure to perform soiled pick up rounds as scheduled can lead to instrument and equipment shortages. This statement is true because if the pick up rounds are not done on time, soiled instruments and equipment will accumulate, resulting in a shortage of clean instruments and equipment for future use. This can disrupt the workflow and efficiency of the facility, potentially leading to delays in procedures and patient care. It is important to adhere to the scheduled pick up rounds to ensure a continuous supply of clean instruments and equipment.

Septorhinoplasty is a combination of two terms: "septo" refers to the nasal septum, which is the partition between the nostrils, and "rhinoplasty" refers to the surgical procedure to reshape or repair the nose. Therefore, septorhinoplasty specifically refers to the surgical repair or reshaping of the nose, focusing on both the external appearance and the internal structure of the nasal passages.

Ultrasonic cleaners work through a mechanical process called cavitation. Cavitation refers to the formation and implosion of tiny bubbles in a liquid, which creates high-pressure waves that help to remove dirt and contaminants from surfaces. This process is achieved by generating high-frequency sound waves that create alternating high and low-pressure cycles in the cleaning solution. As the bubbles collapse, they release energy that dislodges particles from the objects being cleaned. Therefore, the statement "The mechanical process by which an ultrasonic cleaner works is called cavitation" is true.

Staphylococcus is classified as a gram-positive bacteria because it retains the crystal violet stain during the Gram staining process. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell walls, which allows them to retain the stain and appear purple under a microscope. Staphylococcus is known for forming clusters of spherical cells and is commonly found on the skin and mucous membranes of humans and animals.

Hand hygiene is considered the single most important factor in reducing infections because our hands come into contact with various surfaces and objects that may harbor harmful bacteria and viruses. By practicing proper hand hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, we can effectively remove or kill these pathogens and prevent their transmission to ourselves and others. This simple yet crucial act significantly reduces the risk of infections and helps maintain overall health and well-being.

An osteotome is a surgical instrument that is specifically designed to cut or shave bone. It is commonly used in orthopedic procedures to shape or remove bone during surgeries such as joint replacements or fracture repairs. Osteotomes have a sharp, chisel-like edge that allows surgeons to precisely cut and shape bone to achieve the desired outcome. They are not used as retractors or hemostatic forceps, which have different functions in surgical procedures. Therefore, the correct answer is that an osteotome is used to cut or shave bone.

Asepsis refers to the absence of microorganisms that cause disease. It involves preventing the introduction of harmful microorganisms into a sterile environment, such as a surgical site or medical equipment. This can be achieved through various measures, including proper hand hygiene, sterilization of instruments, and maintaining a clean and sanitized environment. Infection prevention and infection control are broader terms that encompass a range of strategies and practices aimed at reducing the risk of infections, but asepsis specifically refers to the absence of disease-causing microorganisms. Healthcare-associated infection control focuses on preventing infections that occur within healthcare settings.

When a soiled instrument is found during the assembly process, it is important to ensure that it is properly cleaned and decontaminated before further use. Cleaning the instrument with a soft bristled brush and alcohol is not sufficient in this case, as it may not completely remove all contaminants. Discarding the instrument is also not recommended, as it may lead to unnecessary waste. Instead, the best course of action is to send the instrument and the tray it was in to the decontamination area for thorough re-cleaning, ensuring that it is safe for use in the assembly process.

The term "itis" is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate inflammation. It is derived from the Greek word "itis" which means inflammation. Therefore, when a word ends with "itis", it generally refers to a condition or disease characterized by inflammation. This suffix is commonly used in medical terms such as arthritis (inflammation of joints), bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes), and tonsillitis (inflammation of tonsils).

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the correct answer because it is the agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for workers in the United States. OSHA has the authority to intervene in matters of worker protection even if there are no specific regulations covering the situation because its primary goal is to prevent workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. OSHA sets and enforces standards, conducts inspections, provides training and education, and encourages employers to create a safe and healthy work environment. Therefore, OSHA can intervene in situations where worker protection is at risk, regardless of specific regulations.

Molds, mushrooms, and yeast are all types of fungi. Fungi are a diverse group of organisms that are eukaryotic and primarily multicellular. They obtain nutrients by absorbing them from their surroundings and reproduce through the production of spores. Unlike bacteria, which can be either gram-negative or gram-positive, fungi have their own distinct classification. Therefore, the correct answer is fungi.

Healthcare-associated infections refer to infections that occur while receiving medical care in a healthcare facility. These infections can be acquired during surgical procedures, but they can also occur in other settings such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. The answer "those which occur in the course of being treated in a healthcare facility" accurately captures the concept that healthcare-associated infections are linked to the process of receiving treatment in a healthcare setting, rather than being caused by drug-resistant organisms or being incurable.

In situations where state or local regulations are stricter or more stringent than federal regulations, the most stringent regulations take precedence. This means that even if federal regulations are less strict, the state or local regulations must be followed to ensure compliance. Therefore, the statement is true.

An index card is the most suitable material for testing Kerrison/laminectomy rongeurs. This is because an index card closely resembles the texture and thickness of bone, which is the primary material that these rongeurs are designed to cut through. Testing the rongeurs on tissue paper, a plastic dowel rod, or rubber testing material would not accurately simulate the resistance and cutting ability required for bone. Therefore, an index card is the best option for testing the rongeurs.

The skeletal system is responsible for giving the body shape and support. It consists of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that work together to provide structure and stability to the body. The bones in the skeletal system also protect vital organs and allow for movement by providing attachment points for muscles. Without the skeletal system, the body would not have a framework to support itself and maintain its shape. Therefore, the skeletal system is the correct answer to this question.

It is not true that all items should be washed on the same cycle. Different items may require different wash cycles based on their materials, level of contamination, and fragility. It is important to follow manufacturer guidelines and best practices for washing different items to ensure effective cleaning and prevent damage.

This statement is false. Viruses are actually smaller than bacteria. While bacteria are single-celled organisms that can be seen under a microscope, viruses are much smaller and can only be seen with an electron microscope. Viruses are composed of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat, while bacteria are complete cells with their own genetic material, cell wall, and organelles.

The statement is true because the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation provides recommendations regarding sterilization practices.

Instruments with tungsten carbide jaws can be easily identified by the gold handles on the instrument. This is because the gold handles are specifically used for instruments with tungsten carbide jaws to indicate their presence. The gold color serves as a visual cue for dental professionals to quickly identify and differentiate these instruments from others in their dental tool kit.

The main theory of standard precautions is to treat all human blood and body fluids as infectious. This means that healthcare workers should take precautions and use protective measures when coming into contact with any blood or body fluids, regardless of whether or not the patient is known to have a specific disease or is showing symptoms of an infection. This approach helps to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases and ensures the safety of both the healthcare workers and the patients.

The correct answer is endometrium because the endometrium refers to the lining of the uterus. It is a mucous membrane that thickens during the menstrual cycle and sheds during menstruation. The endometrium is essential for the implantation of a fertilized egg and plays a crucial role in supporting pregnancy.

Hepatitis B is caused by a virus that is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood. This can occur through various means, such as sharing needles, receiving contaminated blood transfusions, or having unprotected sexual contact with an infected person. The virus can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. While other modes of transmission, such as through the air or via vectors, may occur with other diseases, the main mode of transmission for hepatitis B is through blood contact.

Pressurizing powered surgical instrument air hoses is necessary for conducting a proper inspection. This is because the pressure helps to identify any leaks or damages in the hoses, ensuring that they are in good working condition. Without pressurization, it would be difficult to detect any potential issues that could compromise the safety and effectiveness of the surgical instruments. Therefore, it is important to pressurize the air hoses to ensure thorough inspection and maintenance.

Lipase enzymes are specifically designed to break down fatty tissue, making them the ideal choice for cleaning instruments that have been contaminated with such substances. Protease enzymes are more effective at breaking down proteins, while amylase enzymes are used for breaking down starches. Neutral pH cleaners, on the other hand, are not enzyme-based and are generally less effective at breaking down fatty tissue. Therefore, lipase enzymes are the most suitable option for this purpose.

The term "hypo" is derived from the Greek word "hypo," which means "under" or "below." Therefore, in this context, "hypo" means "below."

Chemical indicators are classified by the FDA as Class II devices. This classification indicates that these devices are subject to special controls to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Class II devices are considered to have a moderate risk level and require specific labeling, performance standards, and post-market surveillance. This classification helps to ensure that chemical indicators meet certain quality and safety standards before they are marketed and used in various applications.

Bacteria that do not require oxygen to live are called anaerobic. This means that they are able to survive and thrive in environments with little to no oxygen. These bacteria have adapted to obtain energy through processes that do not involve the use of oxygen, such as fermentation. Anaerobic bacteria can be found in various habitats, including the human body, soil, and deep-sea environments. They play important roles in biogeochemical cycles and can also be pathogenic, causing diseases in humans and animals.

The correct answer is "be disassembled and sterilized following manufacturer's Instructions for Use." When clean multi-part instruments have been assembled to test for functionality, they should be disassembled before sterilization. This is because sterilization processes may not effectively penetrate all areas of the assembled instrument, increasing the risk of inadequate sterilization. By following the manufacturer's Instructions for Use, which typically include disassembly instructions, the instruments can be properly sterilized to ensure patient safety.

Laminectomy refers to the surgical procedure of removing a part of the lamina, which is a thin bony plate that covers and protects the spinal canal. This procedure is commonly performed to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as spinal stenosis or herniated discs. By removing a portion of the lamina, the surgeon aims to create more space in the spinal canal and relieve the symptoms associated with nerve compression.

The prefix "hemi-" means half. This can be seen in words like "hemisphere" which refers to half of a sphere, or "hemiplegia" which is the paralysis of one side of the body. The prefix "hemi-" is used to indicate that something is divided or split into two equal parts.

The correct answer is "wet contact time." This refers to the duration that an item needs to remain wet with a disinfectant in order to achieve disinfection. It is important because the disinfectant needs sufficient contact time with the item to effectively kill or inactivate any pathogens present. This term is commonly used in the field of infection control and is essential in ensuring proper disinfection protocols are followed.

Electronic testing of laparoscopic insulation should be done in the clean assembly area prior to set assembly to ensure that the insulation is functioning properly before it is used in a surgical procedure. This is important to prevent any potential electrical issues or damage to the insulation during surgery, which could lead to patient harm. Testing the insulation in the clean assembly area also helps to maintain the sterility of the operating room and reduces the risk of contamination during the procedure.

Positive air flow refers to a situation where air is directed to flow out of a particular area when a door is opened, rather than flowing into it. This helps to maintain a clean and controlled environment by preventing the entry of contaminants or pollutants from outside. In this case, the correct answer is "True" as it accurately describes the concept of positive air flow.

The correct answer is to remove the rigid container filter retention plates from the container and lid and clean them separately. This is because cleaning the plates separately ensures that they are thoroughly cleaned and any debris or contaminants are completely removed. Leaving the plates attached to the lid during the cleaning process may not allow for proper cleaning and can result in ineffective filtration. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the plates and clean them separately for optimal cleaning and maintenance.

Arthroscopy instruments are specifically designed and used for joint surgery. These instruments allow surgeons to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems within the joints using minimally invasive techniques. Robotic surgery and laparoscopic surgery may involve different types of instruments and procedures, but they are not specifically designed for joint surgery. Therefore, the correct answer is joint surgery.

Treated water should be used to thoroughly rinse all traces of disinfectant from an endoscope's channels. This is because treated water is specifically designed to remove any remaining disinfectant residue and ensure that the endoscope is completely clean and safe for further use. Forced air, water containing approved sterilant, and heated glutaraldehyde are not suitable for this purpose as they do not have the same cleaning properties as treated water.

When an instrument has a shiny surface, it is described as having a "mirror" finish. This means that the surface of the instrument is highly reflective and smooth, resembling the appearance of a mirror. The term "mirror" is commonly used to describe objects with a polished and reflective surface.

The correct answer is "all items should be cleaned and decontaminated." This is because when returning loaner items to the vendor, it is important to ensure that they are free from any contaminants or potential sources of infection. Cleaning and decontaminating the items helps to prevent the spread of pathogens and maintain a safe environment for both the vendor and the next user of the items. It is a necessary step to ensure the proper hygiene and safety standards are met.

The correct answer is "each time the solution will be used." This is because testing the minimum effective concentration in high-level disinfection solutions is necessary to ensure that the solution is still effective and able to kill pathogens. By testing the solution each time it is used, healthcare professionals can be confident that the solution is working properly and providing the necessary level of disinfection. This helps to maintain a safe and clean environment for patients and healthcare workers.

The correct answer is 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range is ideal for the decontamination area as it helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. It ensures that the area is warm enough to effectively clean and sterilize equipment, but not too hot to cause damage or discomfort to the workers. This temperature range also helps to maintain the integrity of any chemicals or disinfectants used in the decontamination process.

The correct answer is "all the above" because the statement mentions that contaminated items may be returned to Central Service during scheduled soiled pick up rounds, by staff from user departments, and in case carts. This implies that all of these options are valid ways for contaminated items to be returned to Central Service.

The correct answer is "provide a detailed list of tray contents." Count sheets are used to provide a detailed list of the contents of a tray. They are specifically used for Operating Room trays and large procedure packs. These sheets help ensure that all necessary instruments and supplies are present and accounted for during medical procedures.

Dark areas on the lens of an endoscope are likely caused by damaged light fibers. Light fibers are responsible for transmitting light from the light source to illuminate the area being examined. If the light fibers are damaged or broken, it can result in dark areas on the lens where the light is not properly reaching. This can affect the visibility and quality of the images captured by the endoscope.

The Spaulding Classification System is used to categorize patient care items based on the degree of risk of infection. It classifies these items into three categories: critical, semi-critical, and non-critical. Critical items are those that come into contact with sterile tissue or the vascular system and must be sterile. Semi-critical items come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin and require high-level disinfection. Non-critical items only come into contact with intact skin and require low-level disinfection or cleaning. This system helps healthcare professionals determine the appropriate level of disinfection or sterilization required for different patient care items.

Healthcare regulations and standards are put in place to ensure that healthcare providers maintain a certain level of quality and safety in their activities. These regulations outline the minimum standards that must be met to ensure patient safety and the delivery of high-quality care. By adhering to these regulations, healthcare departments can provide consistent and reliable services to patients. The other options, equal pay practices and productivity time lines, are not directly related to the purpose of healthcare regulations and standards.

The first goal of creating an instrument pack is to create a pack that meets user needs. This means that the primary objective is to design a pack that fulfills the requirements and preferences of the users, such as the medical professionals who will be using the instruments. The focus is on ensuring that the pack is functional, efficient, and convenient for the users, rather than prioritizing the packaging container or the satisfaction of the physician.