CRCST: Cleaning And Decontamination! Quiz

The decontamination area should have negative air flow in relation to the other areas of the department. This is important because negative air flow helps to prevent the spread of contaminants from the decontamination area to other areas of the department. It ensures that any airborne particles or substances are drawn into the decontamination area and not released into surrounding areas. This is crucial for maintaining a safe and clean environment in the department and minimizing the risk of contamination.

It is not true that all items should be washed on the same cycle. Different items may have different cleaning requirements and may need to be washed on different cycles to ensure proper cleaning and disinfection.

The preferred pH for detergents used for most cleaning processes is neutral pH. This is because neutral pH (around 7) is neither too acidic nor too alkaline, making it safe and effective for cleaning various surfaces and materials. Detergents with a neutral pH are less likely to cause damage or discoloration, and they can effectively remove dirt, grease, and stains without leaving any residue. Additionally, neutral pH detergents are generally safe for the environment and human health.

Detergents used in mechanical cleaners should be low foaming because excessive foam can interfere with the cleaning process and may cause issues such as reduced cleaning efficiency, overflow, or damage to the equipment. Low foaming detergents ensure that the cleaning solution can effectively penetrate and clean the surfaces without creating excessive foam. This allows the mechanical cleaner to operate smoothly and efficiently, providing optimal cleaning results.

The correct answer is the device manufacturer because they are responsible for providing instructions on how to clean and maintain their specific surgical instruments. They have the knowledge and expertise to ensure that the instruments are properly cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection and maintain their functionality. The mechanical washer manufacturer may provide instructions on how to use their equipment, but they may not have specific knowledge about the cleaning requirements for surgical instruments. The detergent manufacturer may provide information on the use of their products, but they may not have expertise in the cleaning of surgical instruments. The healthcare facility may have their own protocols for cleaning instruments, but they should rely on the instructions provided by the device manufacturer.

Powered surgical instruments cannot be immersed because they contain electrical components that can be damaged by water. Immersion can cause the instruments to malfunction or even become unsafe to use. Therefore, it is important to clean these instruments using alternative methods that do not involve submerging them in water.

Lipase enzymes are used to breakdown fatty tissue on instruments. Lipase is an enzyme that specifically targets and breaks down lipids, which are the main component of fatty tissue. By using lipase enzymes, the fatty tissue on instruments can be effectively broken down and removed, ensuring cleanliness and proper functioning of the instruments.

After cleaning is the correct answer because lubrication should be done after the instrument has been cleaned to ensure that it is free from any debris or contaminants. Cleaning removes any dirt, grime, or biological material that may be present on the instrument's surface. Lubricating the instrument after cleaning helps to maintain its functionality and prolong its lifespan. Sterilization is typically done after cleaning and lubrication to ensure the instrument is free from any microorganisms. Performing lubrication immediately before use may not be effective as the lubricant may not have enough time to properly coat the instrument.

When cleaning instruments, it is recommended to use a to and fro motion rather than a circular motion. This motion helps to effectively remove dirt and debris from the instrument's surface. Circular motion may not provide thorough cleaning and can potentially spread the dirt around. Using a to and fro motion ensures that all areas of the instrument are cleaned properly.

The correct answer is to remove the rigid container filter retention plates from the container and lid and clean them separately. This is because cleaning them separately ensures that they are thoroughly cleaned and any dirt or debris trapped in the filter plates is effectively removed. Leaving them attached to the lid during the cleaning process may not allow for proper cleaning and could result in contamination. Manually cleaning and attaching them to the lid for mechanical cleaning is not recommended as it may not clean them effectively.

When the ultrasonic cleaner's tank is changed, it is necessary to degas the water because excess bubbles from filling reduce the energy of the cavitation process. Cavitation is the formation, growth, and collapse of tiny bubbles in the liquid, which generates high-intensity shock waves that help in the cleaning process. If there are excess bubbles in the water, they can interfere with the formation and collapse of new bubbles, reducing the energy and effectiveness of the cavitation process. Therefore, degassing the water helps to ensure optimal cleaning performance.

The correct answer is 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range is ideal for a decontamination area as it helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. It ensures that the environment is not too cold, which could impede the effectiveness of certain decontamination processes, and not too hot, which could potentially damage equipment or cause discomfort to personnel working in the area. Maintaining a temperature between 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit provides a balance that promotes efficient and safe decontamination procedures.

Pyrogens are substances that can cause a fever in the body. They can be either produced by the body itself as a response to infection or introduced from external sources such as bacteria, viruses, or certain medications. Pyrogens work by stimulating the release of chemicals called cytokines, which in turn raise the body's temperature. This immune response helps to fight off infections, but in some cases, excessive or prolonged fever can be harmful. Therefore, identifying and managing pyrogens is important in medical settings to ensure the well-being of patients.

Untreated water refers to water that has not undergone any purification or treatment processes. This water may contain impurities, minerals, and other substances that can contribute to the formation of mineral scale deposits. These deposits can accumulate over time and cause blockages or damage to pipes, appliances, and equipment that come into contact with the water. Therefore, using untreated water increases the likelihood of mineral scale deposits forming.

To prevent coagulation of proteins, instruments should be pre-rinsed using cool water. This is because cool water helps to maintain the stability of proteins and prevent them from denaturing or coagulating. Warm water, on the other hand, can increase the rate of protein denaturation. Using a neutral detergent or a disinfectant rinse may be necessary for further cleaning or disinfection, but the initial pre-rinse should be done with cool water to prevent protein coagulation.