Sterilization and Infection Control Flashcards
7 cards from real CABT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Sterilization and Infection Control flashcards as text
What is the most widely used sterilization method for heat-stable medical instruments in healthcare facilities?
Answer: Steam autoclave (moist heat sterilization)
Steam autoclave (moist heat) is the most widely used sterilization method because it is effective, fast, non-toxic, and economical for heat-stable instruments.
What temperature and pressure are maintained during a standard gravity displacement steam sterilization cycle?
Answer: 121°C (250°F) at 15 psi
Standard gravity displacement steam sterilization is conducted at 121°C (250°F) at 15 psi for the required exposure time to ensure microbial kill.
According to the Spaulding Classification System, surgical instruments that enter sterile tissue or the vascular system are classified as:
Answer: Critical items
Critical items contact sterile tissue or the vascular system and must be sterilized to prevent the highest risk of infection transmission.
Ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization is best suited for which type of medical equipment?
Answer: Heat and moisture-sensitive devices that cannot withstand steam
EtO sterilizes at low temperatures without moisture, making it ideal for heat and moisture-sensitive devices such as plastics and electronics.
Which biological indicator organism is the standard for testing the efficacy of steam sterilization?
Answer: Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are highly resistant to moist heat and are the accepted standard biological indicator for steam sterilization monitoring.
The Sterility Assurance Level (SAL) required for medical devices labeled as 'sterile' is:
Answer: 10⁻⁶ (1 in 1,000,000)
The required SAL for sterile medical devices is 10⁻⁶, meaning no more than a 1 in 1,000,000 probability of a viable microorganism surviving sterilization.
Why is thorough cleaning performed before sterilization or disinfection of medical instruments?
Answer: Organic debris can shield microorganisms and impair sterilant penetration
Organic debris such as blood and tissue physically protects microorganisms from sterilants and blocks penetration of the sterilizing agent, making pre-cleaning essential.