Decontamination and Spaulding Classifications

Can you name the three Spaulding classifications?

What are two of the most common types of disinfection processes used by CSSDs?

What are three types of soil removal tests most commonly found in CSSDs?

What are the five recommended actions when sorting and disassembling reusable medical devices prior to automated cleaning?

What are three common user errors when loading a washer-disinfector?

What does an ultrasonic cleaner do?

What is the meaning of the term IFU?

What is the minimum level of processing for non-critical devices?

What classification describes devices that must be sterile at the time of use?

Decontamination

Decontamination focuses on receiving, cleaning, and disinfecting reusable medical devices (RMDs).
This process is vital to prevent infections.
Processes must be validated and devices reprocessed based on their intended use.
The level of reprocessing depends on the device's contact with the body and the risk associated with the procedure.
For proper reprocessing, three risk categories, called the Spaulding classifications, are used.

Spaulding Classifications

Non-Critical: Devices contacting skin surfaces and are non-invasive. These devices require cleaning and/or low/intermediate level disinfection.
Semi-Critical: Devices contacting mucous membranes or non-intact skin. They require high-level disinfection.
Critical: Devices contacting sterile areas of the body, including blood contact. These devices must undergo sterilization.

Reprocessing Levels

Critical Site: Devices must be sterile, which includes single-use, steam sterilized, or low-temperature sterilized devices.
Semi-Critical Site: Devices must be either single-use or sterilized after each use. High-level disinfection is the minimum acceptable level for these devices.
Non-Critical Site: Cleaning alone is sufficient for these devices. However, intermediate or low-level disinfection may be appropriate in specific cases.

This quiz covers the essential processes of decontamination and the Spaulding classifications used in the reprocessing of medical devices. Learn about the different risk categories and the required disinfection levels to prevent infections effectively. A must for professionals in healthcare settings.