Spaulding Classification System Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the Spaulding Classification System?

A classification of bacteria

A system developed to classify medical devices based on risk of infection (correct)

A guideline for sterilization processes

A method for disinfecting surgical instruments

Match each device classification with its description:

Critical = Enters sterile tissue or the vascular system, requires sterilization Semi-Critical = Touches mucous membranes, requires sterilization if possible Non-Critical = Touches intact skin, requires low-level disinfection

What does it mean if a device is classified as critical?

It enters sterile tissue or the vascular system and requires sterilization.

Define bacterialcidal.

Capable of destroying bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

What is a disinfectant?

Any chemical agent used to destroy or inhibit the growth of harmful organisms but does not kill spores. Signup and view all the answers

What is sterile/sterilization?

Completely devoid of all living microorganisms. Signup and view all the answers

What does high-level disinfection destroy?

All vegetative microorganisms, but not bacterial spores. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of low-level disinfection?

The destruction of vegetative forms of bacteria. Signup and view all the answers

What is intermediate disinfection?

Destroys selected classes of microorganisms but not bacterial spores. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before using a chemical disinfectant?

Review the manufacturer IFU. Signup and view all the answers

When should accessories needed for disinfection be acquired?

At the beginning of the disinfection process. Signup and view all the answers

When should automated dosing dispensers and suction irrigation devices be quality tested?

Prior to the beginning of the disinfection process. Signup and view all the answers

Various factors vital to the success of chemical disinfection include the ______.

expiration date, reuse life date, appropriate concentration, dilution requirements, correct temperature, water quality and pH requirements. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Spaulding Classification System

Developed by Dr. E.H. Spaulding to categorize medical devices based on infection risk.

Device Classification

Critical Devices:
- Enter sterile tissue or the vascular system.
- Examples: implants, surgical instruments, needles.
- Requires sterilization for safety.
Semi-Critical Devices:
- Contact mucous membranes (excluding dental).
- Examples: flexible endoscopes, laryngoscopes, endotracheal tubes.
- Sterilization is preferred; if not possible, high-level disinfection (HLD) is required.
Non-Critical Devices:
- Touch intact skin.
- Examples: thermometers, stethoscopes.
- Requires low-level disinfection.

Disinfection Methods

Bactericidal: Capable of destroying bacteria.
Disinfectant: Chemical agents that destroy or inhibit harmful organisms, excluding spores.
Sterile/Sterilization: Complete elimination of all living microorganisms.
High-Level Disinfection: Destroys all vegetative microorganisms, but not bacterial spores.
Low-Level Disinfection: Destroys vegetative bacteria forms.
Intermediate Disinfection: Effective against selected microorganisms, including most viruses and fungi, but not spores; used for non-critical items.

Best Practices for Disinfection

Review manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFU) before using chemical disinfectants.
Collect all disinfection accessories (measuring devices, soaking bins, timers) at the start of the process; ensure they are clean and made of non-limiting materials.
Quality test automated devices (dosing dispensers, suction irrigation devices, automated reprocessors) prior to starting disinfection.

Factors for Successful Chemical Disinfection

Check the expiration date of chemicals.
Be aware of reuse life date, if applicable.
Ensure appropriate concentration (diluted or full strength based on IFU).
Follow dilution/mixing requirements.
Maintain the correct temperature for the disinfectant.
Consider water quality and pH requirements for effectiveness.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Spaulding Classification System for medical devices. This quiz covers the categories of risk associated with various devices and their sterilization requirements. Perfect for students and professionals in the medical field.