Questions and Answers
A bacterial spore consists of a hard, thick-walled capsule that can resist adverse conditions.
True
The purpose of sanitization is to remove all microorganisms and spores from a contaminated article.
False
According to OSHA, gloves do not need to be worn during the sanitization process.
False
Glutaraldehyde (Cidex) is a high-level disinfectant.
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High-level disinfection kills all microorganisms but not spores.
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Sterilization is the process of destroying all forms of microbial life except for bacterial spores.
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Autoclave tape indicates whether an autoclaved item is sterile.
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The wrapper used to autoclave articles should prevent contaminants from getting in during handling and storage.
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Tap water should be used in the autoclave.
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The inside of the autoclave should be wiped every day with a damp cloth.
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The agent used to destroy microorganisms on an article depends on the size of the article.
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The purpose of the Hazard Communications Standard is to ensure that employees do not use hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
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The Hazard Communications Standard requires that the label of a hazardous chemical include GHS hazard pictograms.
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Stethoscopes must be decontaminated using a high-level disinfectant.
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The most common temperature and pressure for autoclaving is 212F at 15 lbs of pressure per square inch.
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A sterilization strip should be positioned in the center of a wrapped pack.
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The best means of determining the effectiveness of the sterilization process are biologic indicators.
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The proper time for sterilizing an article in the autoclave depends on what is being autoclaved.
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A pack that has been in the storage cupboard for 4 weeks should be resterilized.
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Ethylene oxide gas is used by medical manufacturers to sterilize disposable items.
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How does one determine what type of physical or chemical agent to use to destroy microorganisms on an article?
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List two diseases that are caused by bacteria that produce spores.
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What are the characteristics of bacterial spores?
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What is the purpose of the Hazard Communication Standard?
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What is the difference between a health hazard and a physical hazard?
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What is the purpose of the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS)?
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List four examples of hazardous chemicals that may be used in the medical office.
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What information must be included on a hazardous chemical label?
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What is the purpose of a GHS signal word?
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What is the meaning of the following GHS signal words?
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What is the difference between a GHS hazard statement and a GHS precautionary statement?
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What is a GHS hazard pictogram and what is its purpose?
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List and briefly describe the information that must be included in a Safety Data Sheet.
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What is the purpose of sanitizing an article?
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What is the advantage of using the ultrasound method to clean instruments?
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Why should gloves be worn during the sanitization procedure?
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Why should instruments be handled carefully?
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Why should a chemical not be used past its expiration date?
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Why must a cleaning agent with a neutral pH be used to sanitize instruments?
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What type of brush should be used to clean the following parts of an instrument?
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How should each of the following be checked for defects and proper working condition?
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What is the purpose of lubricating an instrument?
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What is the definition of high-level disinfection?
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List one example of an item that requires high-level disinfection. List one example of a high-level disinfectant.
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List two examples of items that can be disinfected through intermediate-level disinfection. List one example of an intermediate-level disinfectant.
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List two examples of items that are disinfected by low-level disinfection.
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What is the purpose of sterilization?
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What is a critical item? List examples of critical items.
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What is the purpose of the pressure used in the autoclaving process?
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Why is it important that all air be removed from the autoclave during the sterilization process?
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What temperature and pressure are the most commonly used to sterilize materials with the autoclave?
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What information does the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend be recorded in an autoclave log regarding each cycle?
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What is the purpose of a sterilization indicator?
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What should be done if a sterilization indicator does not change properly?
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How should sterilization indicators be stored?
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What are the advantages and disadvantages of autoclave tape?
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How should a sterilization strip be placed in a wrapped pack?
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How often should a biological indicator be used to monitor an autoclave?
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What is the purpose of wrapping articles to be autoclaved?
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List two properties of a good wrapper for use in autoclaving.
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List three examples of wrapping materials used for the autoclave and identify an advantage of each type.
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Why shouldn't tap water be used to fill the water reservoir of an autoclave?
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How should the following be positioned in the autoclave?
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Why is more time needed to autoclave a large minor office surgery pack?
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What determines the amount of time required to sterilize articles in the autoclave?
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Why must a sterilized load be allowed to dry before it is removed from the autoclave?
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What is event-related sterility?
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How should sterilized packs be stored?
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Describe the care an autoclave should receive on a daily basis.
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Why is a longer exposure period needed to ensure sterilization when using the dry-heat oven?
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What effect does moist heat have on instruments with sharp cutting edges?
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How does the medical manufacturing industry use ethylene oxide gas sterilization?
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What guidelines must be followed when using cold sterilization?
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Study Notes
Sterilization and Disinfection Overview
- Bacterial spores are hardy capsules that resist harsh conditions.
- Sanitization removes microorganisms but does not eliminate all spores.
- OSHA requires gloves during sanitization for protection.
- High-level disinfectants like Glutaraldehyde (Cidex) kill most microorganisms excluding spores.
Sterilization Processes
- Sterilization eliminates all microbial life, including spores; it's comprehensive.
- Autoclave tape indicates processing but does not confirm sterility.
- The wrapper for autoclaved items must be contamination-proof.
- Use distilled water in autoclaves to avoid corrosion.
Autoclave Best Practices
- Autoclave must be regularly cleaned and maintained for effective operation.
- Sterilization strips should be placed centrally in packs.
- Biological indicators are essential for verifying sterilization effectiveness on a weekly basis.
- A sterilization log is crucial for tracking cycle performance and results.
Chemical and Physical Hazards
- The Hazard Communications Standard guides safe chemical usage in workplaces, including labeling with GHS pictograms.
- Differences exist between health hazards (toxic effects) and physical hazards (fire or explosion risks) related to chemicals.
Disinfection Levels
- High-level disinfection involves destroying most microorganisms but not spores; it's vital for items like sigmoidoscopes.
- Intermediate-level disinfection applies to items like surgical instruments, while low-level disinfection is suitable for surfaces like lab counters.
- Sterilization focuses on critical items that contact sterile tissue or the vascular system, ensuring they are germ-free.
Autoclaving Techniques and Guidelines
- Autoclaving at 250°F (121°C) with 15 pounds of pressure is the standard for effective sterilization.
- Proper positioning of items in an autoclave ensures steam circulation and effective processing.
- Sterilized items need to dry completely to prevent contamination from moisture.
GHS and Safety Data
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide crucial details about chemical hazards, handling measures, and firefighting strategies.
- GHS signal words indicate the severity of chemical hazards; "Danger" signals severe risk, while "Warning" denotes lesser potential harm.
Instrument Care and Maintenance
- Instruments should be handled carefully to avoid damage and ensure longevity.
- Use neutral pH cleaning agents to avoid staining and maintain instrument integrity.
- Store sterilized packs in a clean, dry, and uncontaminated environment.
Special Considerations
- Ethylene oxide is suitable for sterilizing heat-sensitive items that can't withstand autoclaving.
- Cold sterilization methods require complete submersion in the chemical for the required duration to ensure effectiveness.
Daily Autoclave Maintenance
- Routine cleansing of autoclave hardware ensures proper function and longevity.
- Inspecting and maintaining door seals prevents failures that could compromise sterilization effectiveness.
Event-related Sterility
- Sterile items remain effective until an event compromises their sterility, emphasizing careful handling and storage practices.
This structured guide encompasses key concepts in sterilization and disinfection necessary for effective practice in medical settings.
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Test your knowledge on sterilization and disinfection concepts with this Chapter 18 quiz. The flashcards cover essential definitions and true/false questions to reinforce your understanding of microbiological safety practices. Ideal for students studying microbiology or health sciences.