St. Mark's Cbspd Certification Training / Chapter 5- Decontamination

This statement emphasizes the importance of considering all instrumentation and devices received from external sources or brought in by a surgeon as contaminated. It states that these items should undergo complete reprocessing to ensure safety and prevent any potential risks of contamination during surgical procedures. Therefore, the correct answer is True.

When the detergent solution is changed, it is important to clean the sink basin before refilling it. This is necessary to remove any residue or dirt left behind from the previous solution, ensuring that the new solution is clean and effective. Failing to clean the sink basin can result in contamination of the new detergent solution, reducing its ability to clean effectively. Therefore, it is necessary to clean the sink basin before refilling it with a new detergent solution.

Items that are soiled with blood, body fluids, and other contaminants should be transported immediately to the decontamination area for processing. This is because allowing these substances to dry on the surfaces can make it more difficult to remove them later on. By transporting the items promptly, the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of infectious agents can be minimized. Therefore, the statement "Soiled items should be transported immediately to the decontamination area for processing to prevent blood, body fluids, and other contaminants from drying on the surfaces" is true.

The given statement is true because it emphasizes the importance of developing written procedures for cleaning instrumentation. These procedures should align with the instructions provided by the device manufacturers and should cover various aspects of the cleaning process, such as disassembly and inspection for cleanliness. This ensures that the cleaning is performed correctly and consistently, reducing the risk of contamination or damage to the instruments.

The correct answer is Biohazard. When transporting contaminated items that contain potentially biohazardous materials, a biohazard label should be used to alert personnel. This label is commonly recognized as a symbol consisting of a black biohazard symbol on an orange background. It is important to use this label to ensure the safety of personnel and to communicate the potential risks associated with the materials being transported.

This statement is false because wearing jewelry and having long fingernails is not acceptable in the decontamination area, even if gloves are worn. Jewelry and long fingernails can harbor bacteria and other contaminants, which can compromise the effectiveness of the decontamination process and increase the risk of contamination. Therefore, it is important to remove jewelry and keep fingernails short and clean in the decontamination area to maintain a safe and sterile environment.

The acronym IFU stands for Instructions For Use. This term is commonly used in various industries to refer to the set of instructions or guidelines provided with a product or device on how to properly and safely use it. These instructions typically include information on installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The purpose of IFUs is to ensure that users have all the necessary information and guidance to use the product effectively and avoid any potential risks or misuse.

Steam is known to leave residuals that can accumulate over time, which can potentially affect the cleanliness and functionality of rigid containers. Therefore, it is recommended to clean these containers after each use, following the manufacturer's guidelines. This ensures that any residual steam or other substances are removed, maintaining the container's hygiene and preventing any potential issues that may arise from the buildup of residues.

Water pH can indeed affect the efficacy of detergents and disinfectants used in processing. pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, and different pH levels can impact the performance of cleaning agents. For example, some detergents are more effective in acidic conditions, while others work better in alkaline conditions. Similarly, the effectiveness of disinfectants can also be influenced by pH. Therefore, it is important to consider the pH of the water used in processing to ensure that the detergents and disinfectants are working optimally.

The decontamination area should have 10 air exchanges per hour. This is important to ensure that the air in the area is constantly refreshed and any contaminants or pollutants are effectively removed. Having a higher number of air exchanges per hour helps to maintain a clean and safe environment for decontamination processes.

Cavitation is the correct answer because it refers to the process by which ultrasonic cleaners work. Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution. These bubbles then collapse rapidly, creating a scrubbing action that helps to remove dirt and debris from objects being cleaned. This process is known as cavitation and is the key mechanism behind the effectiveness of ultrasonic cleaners.

Cleaning only the working part of an instrument is not an acceptable way to save time during the cleaning process. All parts of an instrument that come into direct contact with the patient must be cleaned with a cleaning agent to ensure proper hygiene and prevent the spread of infections. Neglecting to clean any part of the instrument can lead to contamination and pose a risk to the patient's health. Therefore, the statement is false.

Low foaming/sudsing detergents are the best type of detergent used in mechanical washers because they are specifically designed to produce minimal foam or suds. This is important because excessive foam can interfere with the washing process, causing the machine to malfunction or not clean the clothes effectively. Low foaming/sudsing detergents ensure that the washing machine can function properly and that the clothes are thoroughly cleaned. Additionally, low foaming/sudsing detergents are also more efficient and cost-effective as they require less water for rinsing and are less likely to leave residue on the clothes.

The statement suggests that because Washer/Sterilizer units have a sterilization cycle, there is no need to manually clean instruments before using them. However, this statement is false. While Washer/Sterilizer units can effectively sterilize instruments, it is still important to thoroughly clean them manually before sterilization. Manual cleaning helps remove debris, organic material, and other contaminants that may interfere with the sterilization process. Therefore, manual cleaning is a necessary step to ensure proper sterilization and instrument safety.

Friction is indeed one of the main principles of cleaning. When we scrub an instrument manually, the friction between the cleaning tool and the surface helps to remove dirt, stains, and debris effectively. The rubbing action generates heat and kinetic energy, which aids in dislodging particles and breaking down substances. Therefore, the statement "Friction is one of the main principles of cleaning and is created by scrubbing an instrument in manual cleaning" is true.

Delicate instruments are prone to damage and require extra care. Placing them on top of heavy items in trays for cleaning ensures that they are not crushed or damaged by the weight of other instruments. This arrangement ensures that delicate instruments remain safe during the cleaning process, minimizing the risk of any damage.

The relative acidity or alkalinity of a solution is referred to as its pH. pH is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, which determines its acidity or alkalinity. A pH value below 7 indicates acidity, while a pH value above 7 indicates alkalinity. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being considered neutral. Therefore, pH is the correct answer as it accurately represents the concept of measuring the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.

The decontamination area should be designed to maintain negative air pressure to help contain contaminants inside the area. Positive air pressure would cause air to flow out of the decontamination area, potentially spreading contaminants to other areas.

When brushing through a cannulated item, it is important to start with an appropriate size brush and begin from the smallest end, moving towards the larger end. This is because starting with a smaller brush ensures that it can pass through the narrower parts of the item without getting stuck. By gradually using larger brushes, the process becomes more efficient and effective in removing any debris or buildup within the cannulated item. Therefore, the statement is true.

Temperature and humidity should be recorded and documented daily to ensure accurate and up-to-date information. Daily recordings allow for better monitoring of any fluctuations or changes that may occur, which is crucial for maintaining optimal conditions in various settings such as laboratories, storage facilities, or even homes. Regular documentation also provides a reliable record for analysis and comparison over time, aiding in identifying patterns or potential issues that may arise.

The correct answer is OSHA / Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA is a government agency that is responsible for regulating and enforcing workplace safety standards, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). They establish guidelines and regulations to ensure that workers are protected from hazards and have access to appropriate PPE. The statement provided in the question that PPE is not regulated by a governing body and is instead enforced by a hospital's standard operating procedure is incorrect.

Pyrogen is the correct answer because it is defined as a fever producing agent. The use of critical water for the final rinse of medical devices is recommended to reduce the potential for pyrogen formation and re-contamination of instruments.

It is recommended to check all components of a mechanical washer daily unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Regular daily checks ensure that any potential issues or malfunctions can be identified and addressed promptly, preventing further damage or breakdowns. This regular maintenance practice helps to maintain the efficiency and longevity of the mechanical washer.

Cleaning is the most important part of the disinfection or sterilization process because it removes dirt, debris, and organic matter from surfaces. This step is crucial because disinfection or sterilization cannot be effective if the surfaces are not clean. Cleaning helps to reduce the number of microorganisms present and prepares the surface for further disinfection or sterilization methods. Without proper cleaning, the effectiveness of thermal or chemical disinfection methods may be compromised, leading to potential contamination and infection risks.

If a flexible endoscope fails a leak test, it indicates that there is a problem with the endoscope's integrity and it is not safe to use. Therefore, it should be taken out of circulation immediately to prevent any potential harm to patients. Sending it out for repair ensures that the necessary repairs are made by a qualified professional before it can be used again.

It is not permissible to skip the complete decontamination process if an instrument is discovered to be damaged in the decontamination area, even if it will be sent out for repair and not used on a patient. The decontamination process is essential to ensure that all instruments are properly cleaned and sterilized to prevent the spread of infection. Skipping this process could lead to cross-contamination and compromise patient safety.

The drain basket in a mechanical washer should be cleaned daily because it is important to maintain cleanliness and prevent any blockages or clogs. Daily cleaning ensures that any dirt, lint, or debris that accumulates in the drain basket is removed regularly, preventing it from building up and causing potential issues with the washer's drainage system. Regular cleaning also helps to maintain the efficiency and longevity of the washer, ensuring that it operates smoothly and effectively.

The correct answer is 30% - 60%. This range of humidity is suitable for a decontamination area as it helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Humidity levels below 30% can cause the area to become too dry, which can lead to discomfort and irritation for individuals working in the area. On the other hand, humidity levels above 60% can create a moist environment that promotes the growth of mold and fungi, which can compromise the cleanliness and safety of the decontamination area. Therefore, maintaining a humidity range of 30% - 60% is essential for effective decontamination procedures.

A cannulated item refers to an item that has a hollow tube or channel running through it. This hollow tube or channel is known as the lumen. Therefore, lumen is another term used to describe a cannulated item.

Flexible endoscopes should not be cleaned with the same enzymatic detergent solution and cleaning brushes for multiple scopes, even if they do not appear visibly soiled. This is because there is still a risk of cross-contamination and the potential for transmission of infectious agents. Each scope should be cleaned and sterilized separately to ensure proper disinfection and reduce the risk of infection.

Silicone mats should be removed prior to both ultrasonic cleaning and automated cleaning because these cleaning methods involve the use of water, detergents, and high-pressure or high-frequency waves. Silicone mats are not designed to withstand these cleaning processes and may get damaged or cause damage to the equipment. Therefore, it is necessary to remove them before cleaning to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the cleaning process.

Cleaning the chamber of an ultrasonic is necessary even after it is drained. This is because even though the liquid is drained, there can still be residue or contaminants present on the surfaces of the chamber. These residues can accumulate over time and affect the effectiveness and efficiency of the ultrasonic cleaning process. Therefore, it is important to clean the chamber thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and maintain cleanliness.

A pH value of 4 indicates that the water is acidic. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with values below 7 indicating acidity. Therefore, a pH of 4 suggests that the water has a high concentration of hydrogen ions, making it acidic in nature.

The CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) exam focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary for sterile processing technicians. The core subjects include Anatomy and Physiology (relevant to surgical instruments and the human body), Microbiology (for understanding sterilization and infection control), and Medical Terminology (to interpret instructions and understand instrument names). Hospital Administration, while important in a healthcare setting, is not a primary focus for sterile processing technicians.

The correct answer is Ultrasonic Cleaner. An Ultrasonic Cleaner is a cleaning process that uses high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt and contaminants from items. It is commonly used in industries such as healthcare, electronics, and jewelry. This process is effective in cleaning delicate or intricate items that may be difficult to clean using traditional methods. It works by creating tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution that implode, generating high-energy waves that remove dirt and grime.

This item would test the Ultrasonic Cleaner cleaning process. Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution. These bubbles then implode, creating a scrubbing action that removes dirt, debris, and contaminants from the item being cleaned. This process is particularly effective for cleaning delicate or intricate items that are difficult to clean manually or with other cleaning methods.

In 2001, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) implemented a regulation that required sharps to be confined and contained in an impervious, leak-proof container. This regulation was put in place to ensure the safety of workers and prevent injuries or infections that can result from accidental contact with sharps, such as needles or blades. By confining and containing sharps in a proper container, the risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens and other hazardous materials is minimized.

Plastic trays are not recommended for use in an ultrasonic machine because they have the natural ability to absorb ultrasonic waves. This means that the plastic trays would hinder the effectiveness of the ultrasonic machine, as the waves would not be able to penetrate the trays properly. Therefore, it is true that plastic trays are not recommended for use in an ultrasonic machine.

Large visible chunks of bioburden cannot be placed directly into an ultrasonic cleaner because the process of cavitation, which involves the formation and implosion of tiny bubbles, is not effective in removing such soil. The ultrasonic cleaner is more suitable for removing smaller particles and contaminants. Therefore, the statement is false.

Items do need to be thoroughly rinsed after being ultrasonic cleaned, even if they are going to be mechanically washed. Ultrasonic cleaning uses high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt and debris from items, but it does not remove all contaminants. Rinsing is necessary to ensure that any remaining residue or cleaning solution is completely removed before the items are mechanically washed.

Kerrison Rongeurs that cannot be opened for cleaning should not be treated as a single-use item and discarded immediately. This implies that they can be reused after cleaning.

The pH of a cleaning solution should be between 7-9. This range is considered optimal for cleaning because it allows for effective removal of dirt and stains without causing damage to the surfaces being cleaned. Solutions with a pH below 7 are acidic and may be too harsh, while solutions with a pH above 9 are alkaline and may leave residue or cause discoloration. Therefore, a pH range of 7-9 strikes a balance between effectiveness and safety for most cleaning applications.

AORN recommends that endoscopes be stored in closed/vented cabinets. This is because closed cabinets provide protection from dust, debris, and potential contaminants that could compromise the cleanliness and sterility of the endoscopes. However, it is also important for the cabinets to be vented to allow for proper air circulation and prevent the buildup of moisture, which could lead to the growth of bacteria or mold. Therefore, closed/vented cabinets offer the optimal storage environment for maintaining the integrity and cleanliness of endoscopes.

Handles should not be removed prior to cleaning rigid sterilization containers. Handles are an essential component of the container and are necessary for handling and transporting the container safely. Removing the handles would make it difficult to move the container and could potentially cause damage or accidents. Therefore, handles should be left intact during the cleaning process.

Preventative maintenance is the correct answer because it refers to the regular inspection, cleaning, and repair of equipment to prevent breakdowns and ensure its proper functioning. By implementing a preventative maintenance program, cleaning equipment can be regularly checked and maintained to avoid any potential issues or malfunctions. This helps to extend the lifespan of the equipment, improve its efficiency, and minimize the risk of unexpected breakdowns or failures during cleaning operations.

Biofilm is defined as groups or collections of microorganisms and extracellular material that adhere to the surface of any object and are protected by a slimy film (polysaccharides).

The correct answer is that the use of saline is not acceptable because it can damage the surface of the instrument. Saline is a solution of sodium chloride, and the sodium can cause corrosion or pitting on the surface of the instrument. This can compromise the integrity of the instrument and make it less effective or even unsafe to use during surgery. It is important to use appropriate cleaning and sterilization methods for surgical instruments to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

SPD techs should be inspecting all components of a mechanical washer except for electrical wiring/hookups. This is because electrical wiring and hookups are typically inspected and maintained by electricians or specialized technicians who are trained to handle electrical systems. The other components mentioned, such as spray arms, drain strainer, loading ramps, exterior surfaces, and detergent levels, are all parts of the mechanical system of the washer that SPD techs should inspect to ensure proper functioning and cleanliness.

The two types of water used in processing are utility water and critical water. Utility water refers to the water that is used for general purposes such as cleaning, heating, and cooling. Critical water, on the other hand, is a specialized type of water that is used in critical processes where high purity is required, such as in pharmaceutical or electronic manufacturing.

Enzymatic-based detergents are most effective within a specific temperature range that optimizes enzyme activity. The appropriate temperature range for water when using these detergents is typically between 90°F and 110°F. Temperatures within this range help the enzymes break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates efficiently without denaturing them.