Certified And Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Practice Exam
We welcome you to our Certified and Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Practice Exam. The CRCST is a certification program that tests the abilities and skillset of service technicians. We suggest you take the quiz if you are preparing for the certification examination. Our quiz covers essential sections of sterile processing like sterilization, disinfection, decontamination, etc. Please make sure to read all the questions carefully before answering. Remember to check your scores once you've completed taking the test. We wish you good luck with your exam preparations.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
This low-level disinfection is incompatible with soap.
- A.
Alcohol
- B.
Phenol
- C.
Quaternary ammonium compounds
- D.
Ortho-phthalaldehyde
Correct Answer
C. Quaternary ammonium compoundsExplanation
Quaternary ammonium compounds are a type of low-level disinfectant that is incompatible with soap. This means that when used together, the effectiveness of both the disinfectant and the soap may be compromised. It is important to note that soap is not considered a disinfectant on its own, but rather helps to remove dirt and germs from surfaces. Therefore, if quaternary ammonium compounds are used for disinfection, it is recommended to avoid using soap simultaneously to ensure the effectiveness of the disinfectant.Rate this question:
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- 2.
When using glutaraldehyde, technicians should always wear latex gloves for protection.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Technicians should not always wear latex gloves when using glutaraldehyde. While gloves are recommended for protection, they should be made of nitrile or neoprene, as glutaraldehyde can penetrate latex gloves and cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When using high-level disinfectants it is important to remember they may be deactivated by
- A.
Alkylation
- B.
Organic matter
- C.
Oxidation
- D.
All the above
Correct Answer
B. Organic matterExplanation
High-level disinfectants are powerful disinfectants that are used to kill or inactivate a wide range of microorganisms. However, they can be deactivated or rendered ineffective by organic matter. Organic matter such as blood, bodily fluids, dirt, or debris can interfere with the disinfection process by binding to the disinfectant molecules and preventing them from effectively targeting and killing the microorganisms. Therefore, it is crucial to clean and remove any organic matter from the surfaces or objects before applying high-level disinfectants to ensure their effectiveness.Rate this question:
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- 4.
In an automated washer, the key source of disinfection is
- A.
Hydrogen peroxide
- B.
Water temperature
- C.
Heat
- D.
Disinfecting detergent
Correct Answer
B. Water temperatureExplanation
Water temperature is the key source of disinfection in an automated washer because high temperatures can kill or inactivate many types of microorganisms. Heat is able to denature proteins and disrupt cell membranes, effectively destroying the microorganisms. Hydrogen peroxide can also have disinfecting properties, but it is not the main source of disinfection in this case. Disinfecting detergent can help in the cleaning process, but it is not the primary source of disinfection.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The use of test strips to test the minimum effective concentration in high-level disinfection solutions is required
- A.
Weekly, preferably daily
- B.
Daily
- C.
Each time the solution will be used
- D.
Only when manual soaking systems are used
Correct Answer
C. Each time the solution will be usedExplanation
Testing the minimum effective concentration in high-level disinfection solutions each time the solution will be used ensures that the solution is at the appropriate concentration to effectively kill microorganisms. This is important for ensuring the safety and efficacy of the disinfection process. Weekly or daily testing is not frequent enough to guarantee that the solution remains effective between tests. Testing is not limited to only when manual soaking systems are used, as the concentration of the solution can vary regardless of the method used.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The use of heat to kill all microorganisms, except spores, is called
- A.
Sterilization
- B.
Thermal disinfection
- C.
High-level disinfection
- D.
Mechanical disinfection
Correct Answer
B. Thermal disinfectionExplanation
Thermal disinfection refers to the use of heat to kill all microorganisms, except spores. This method is effective in destroying most bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is commonly used in healthcare settings to sterilize medical equipment and instruments. Unlike sterilization, which kills all forms of life including spores, thermal disinfection only targets the vegetative forms of microorganisms. This process helps to reduce the risk of infection and ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers.Rate this question:
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- 7.
These chemicals are used on animate (living tissue) to slow the growth of microorganisms.
- A.
Glutaraldehydes
- B.
Disinfectants
- C.
Halogens
- D.
Antiseptics
Correct Answer
D. AntisepticsExplanation
Antiseptics are used on living tissue to slow the growth of microorganisms. They are specifically designed to be used on animate (living) surfaces, such as skin, to prevent infection. Antiseptics work by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thereby reducing the risk of infection. Unlike disinfectants, which are used on inanimate objects, antiseptics are formulated to be safe for use on the skin and other living tissues. Glutaraldehydes, halogens, and disinfectants are not specifically designed for use on living tissue, making antiseptics the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Items that are introduced directly into the bloodstream or other normally sterile areas of the body are classified as
- A.
Critical items
- B.
Semi-critical items
- C.
Non-critical items
- D.
Equipment
Correct Answer
A. Critical itemsExplanation
Critical items are classified as items that are introduced directly into the bloodstream or other normally sterile areas of the body. These items have a high risk of causing infection if not properly sterilized or if contaminated. It is crucial to ensure that critical items are properly cleaned, sterilized, and handled to prevent the transmission of pathogens and ensure patient safety.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The process by which all forms of microorganisms are completely destroyed is
- A.
High-level disinfection
- B.
Thermal disinfection.
- C.
Sterilization
- D.
Chemical disinfection
Correct Answer
C. SterilizationExplanation
Sterilization is the correct answer because it refers to the process of completely destroying all forms of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. This process ensures that no viable microorganisms are present, making the object or area free from any potential sources of infection or contamination. High-level disinfection, thermal disinfection, and chemical disinfection may effectively kill most microorganisms but may not guarantee complete eradication, unlike sterilization.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Iodophors are a member of this chemical family.
- A.
Halogens
- B.
Quaternary ammonium compounds
- C.
Alcohol
- D.
Phenolics
Correct Answer
A. HalogensExplanation
Iodophors are a member of the chemical family known as halogens. Halogens are a group of elements that include iodine, chlorine, bromine, fluorine, and astatine. Iodophors are chemical compounds that contain iodine and are commonly used as disinfectants or antiseptics. They are effective against a wide range of microorganisms and are often used in medical and healthcare settings.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Phenolics are classified as what?
- A.
Intermediate to low-level disinfectants
- B.
Intermediate to high-level disinfectants
- C.
High-level disinfectants
- D.
Sterilants
Correct Answer
A. Intermediate to low-level disinfectantsExplanation
Phenolics are classified as intermediate to low-level disinfectants because they have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and can effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, they are not as potent as high-level disinfectants or sterilants, which can completely eliminate all forms of microbial life. Therefore, phenolics are considered suitable for disinfecting surfaces and medical equipment that do not require sterilization but still need effective disinfection.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following are classified as high-level disinfectants?
- A.
Glutaraldehyde and phenolics
- B.
Glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydes
- C.
Quaternary ammonium compounds and phenolics
- D.
Halogens and ortho-phthalaldehydes
Correct Answer
B. Glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydesExplanation
Glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydes are classified as high-level disinfectants because they have the ability to kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These disinfectants are effective against both vegetative and spore forms of microorganisms, making them suitable for use in healthcare settings where a high level of disinfection is required. Additionally, both glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydes have a low level of toxicity and are compatible with a variety of materials, making them versatile options for disinfection purposes.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Thermal disinfection is accomplished using
- A.
Heated chemicals
- B.
Heated glurataldehyde
- C.
Prolonged high pressure steam
- D.
Heat
Correct Answer
D. HeatExplanation
Thermal disinfection is a process of using heat to eliminate or reduce the number of microorganisms. It is an effective method because high temperatures can denature the proteins and enzymes of the microorganisms, leading to their destruction. The options "Heated chemicals" and "Heated glutaraldehyde" are incorrect as they suggest the use of heated substances, rather than heat itself. Prolonged high pressure steam is also incorrect as it specifies a specific form of heat, while the correct answer simply states "heat," which encompasses all forms of heat.Rate this question:
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- 14.
How long must alcohol remain in wet contact with an item to achieve a reasonable level of disinfection?
- A.
One to two minutes
- B.
Two to three minutes
- C.
Five to 10 minutes
- D.
10 to 20 minutes
Correct Answer
C. Five to 10 minutesExplanation
To achieve a reasonable level of disinfection, alcohol must remain in wet contact with an item for a period of five to 10 minutes. This duration allows enough time for the alcohol to effectively kill bacteria and viruses on the surface. A shorter contact time may not be sufficient to fully disinfect the item, while a longer contact time may not provide any additional benefits and could potentially damage the item being disinfected. Therefore, five to 10 minutes is considered an appropriate timeframe for alcohol disinfection.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following would be the best choice for high-level disinfection of instruments?
- A.
Phenolics
- B.
Chlorine
- C.
Iodophors
- D.
Ortho-phthalaldehydes
Correct Answer
D. Ortho-phthalaldehydesExplanation
Ortho-phthalaldehydes would be the best choice for high-level disinfection of instruments. This is because ortho-phthalaldehydes have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity and can effectively kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They are also relatively fast-acting and have a low level of toxicity. Additionally, ortho-phthalaldehydes have good material compatibility and can be used to disinfect a variety of medical instruments without causing damage or corrosion.Rate this question:
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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Aug 17, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Jun 15, 2018Quiz Created by
MCS
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