Unlock hundreds more features
Save your Quiz to the Dashboard
View and Export Results
Use AI to Create Quizzes and Analyse Results

OR
Sign inSign in with Facebook
Sign inSign in with Google
Quizzes > Health & Medicine > Human Anatomy & Medicine

CRCST Practice Test: Are You Ready to Ace Sterile Processing?

Think you can ace this CRCST practice exam on sterile processing? Dive in now!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for CRCST practice test on sterile processing, infection control, equipment maintenance on dark blue background

Are you ready to boost your confidence and master the essentials of sterile processing? Our free CRCST practice test offers a focused way to review infection control standards, equipment maintenance procedures, and decontamination workflows. Whether you're gearing up for a crcst practice exam, seeking a thorough sterile processing practice test, or exploring an iahcsmm practice test to sharpen your knowledge, this challenge is for you. By engaging with a sterile processing technician practice exam format, you'll gain real exam familiarity and pinpoint both strengths and growth areas. Designed for aspiring technicians, this friendly quiz gets you exam-ready in no time. Don't wait - dive into our certification quiz and tackle the free practice exam today!

What is the primary purpose of the sterile processing department in a healthcare facility?
To perform surgical procedures
To decontaminate, inspect, and sterilize medical instruments
To diagnose infectious diseases
To manage patient billing
The sterile processing department is responsible for the safe decontamination, inspection, assembly, and sterilization of medical instruments to ensure patient safety and prevent healthcare-associated infections. Proper sterilization reduces the risk of cross-contamination and surgical site infections. This function is critical in supporting surgical and invasive procedures. https://www.aami.org/standards/STERILIZATION
Which temperature is recommended for steam sterilization in a standard gravity-displacement autoclave for unwrapped items?
121°C (250°F) for 15 minutes
134°C (273°F) for 3 minutes
115°C (239°F) for 30 minutes
145°C (293°F) for 5 minutes
For unwrapped items in a gravity-displacement sterilizer, 121°C for 15 minutes is the standard recommendation according to most guidelines. This cycle ensures adequate steam penetration and microbial kill while maintaining efficiency. Higher temperatures and shorter times are typically reserved for pre-vacuum sterilizers or wrapped goods. https://www.cdc.gov/hai/prevent/resource-limited/sterilization.html
What is the first step in manual cleaning of surgical instruments?
Ultrasonic cleaning
Visual inspection
Pre-soak in enzymatic detergent
Steam sterilization
Pre-soaking instruments in an enzymatic detergent immediately after use helps to prevent bioburden from drying and becoming difficult to remove. Enzymatic detergents break down blood, proteins, and fats, making subsequent cleaning steps more effective. This preventative step protects instruments from damage and reduces infection risk. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What does CRCST stand for?
Certified Registered Central Supply Technician
Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician
Certified Radiology and Central Sterile Technician
Central Registered Clinical Sterile Technician
CRCST stands for Certified Registered Central Sterile Technician. This certification demonstrates that an individual has met the standards of knowledge and competence in sterile processing as defined by the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA). It covers areas such as decontamination, assembly, sterilization, storage, and distribution. https://www.iahcsmm.org/Certification/CRCST
Which of the following is a biological indicator commonly used to monitor steam sterilization cycles?
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores
Bacillus subtilis spores
Pseudomonas aeruginosa cultures
Clostridium difficile toxin
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the standard biological indicator for steam sterilization because they are among the most heat-resistant organisms. Monitoring with these spores ensures that the sterilization process achieves a high level of microbial kill. Regular use of biological indicators is required for validation and routine monitoring. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/steam.html
Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required during the decontamination phase?
Sterile gloves, surgical cap, and gown
Lead apron and thyroid shield
Heavy-duty gloves, impermeable gown, eye protection, and mask or face shield
No PPE is required
During decontamination, staff must wear heavy-duty gloves to protect against sharps, an impermeable gown to prevent fluid penetration, and eye and face protection to guard against splashes. This PPE combination minimizes risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Regulatory standards such as OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard require these precautions. https://www.osha.gov/bloodborne-pathogens
Which type of detergent is most effective for breaking down organic debris on instruments?
Neutral-pH dish soap
Phenolic disinfectant
Alkaline enzymatic detergent
Isopropyl alcohol
Alkaline enzymatic detergents are specifically formulated with enzymes and surfactants to break down proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates found in blood and tissue debris. The alkaline pH enhances protein removal. These detergents improve cleaning efficacy and protect instrument surfaces. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What does the term "flash sterilization" refer to?
Sterilizing instruments with unwrapped or single items in a shortened exposure time
Using ultraviolet light to sterilize open trays
Sterilization of instruments at cold temperatures
Sterilization inside a vacuum desiccator
Flash sterilization involves sterilizing unwrapped or minimally wrapped instruments using a shorter exposure time in a steam sterilizer, typically 3–10 minutes at 132°C–135°C. It is used for emergencies but is not a substitute for routine sterilization due to higher risk of contamination post-cycle. Guidelines limit its use. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/flash.html
How often should a Bowie-Dick test be performed on a pre-vacuum steam sterilizer?
Once a week
With every load
Daily before the first sterilization cycle
Monthly during routine maintenance
A Bowie-Dick test is performed daily before the first cycle on a pre-vacuum steam sterilizer to verify proper air removal and steam penetration. This daily check is essential for detecting air leaks or inadequate vacuum performance. Failure to run this test can compromise sterilization efficacy. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which level of disinfection kills Mycobacterium tuberculosis but not bacterial spores?
Low-level disinfection
Intermediate-level disinfection
High-level disinfection
Sterilization
Intermediate-level disinfectants inactivate Mycobacterium tuberculosis, vegetative bacteria, most viruses, and fungi, but do not reliably kill bacterial spores. Understanding disinfection levels helps staff choose the correct chemical for various instruments and surfaces. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/index.html
What is the purpose of using sterilization indicator tape on packaging?
To seal the package air-tight
To demonstrate the item is sterile indefinitely
To provide a visual indication that the package has been exposed to sterilization parameters
To label the contents automatically
Sterilization indicator tape changes color when exposed to specific sterilization conditions (temperature and/or steam) providing a quick visual confirmation that the package was processed. It does not guarantee sterility but shows exposure to the cycle parameters. Internal chemical indicators give more detailed information. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which type of water is recommended for use in steam sterilizers?
Tap water
Distilled or deionized water
Mineral water
Rainwater
Distilled or deionized water is recommended for steam sterilizers to prevent mineral buildup (scale), which can impair performance, damage equipment, and reduce sterilization efficacy. Tap water often contains minerals and impurities that lead to corrosion and filter blockage. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What color change typically indicates a chemical indicator for steam sterilization has been exposed correctly?
White to black
Yellow to brown or black
Blue to green
Red to pink
Many steam sterilization chemical indicators change from yellow to brown or black when exposed to the appropriate combination of time, temperature, and steam. These color changes help staff quickly identify processed packages. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for indicator interpretation. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
How long is the typical drying phase in a standard gravity-displacement steam sterilization cycle at 121°C?
5 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes
45 minutes
A 15-minute drying time at 121°C is common in gravity-displacement cycles to remove residual moisture from instrument packaging and ensure sterility is maintained until use. Adequate drying prevents recontamination and water damage to sterile goods. Dry times may vary by manufacturer. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/steam.html
Which cleaning method uses cavitation bubbles created by high-frequency sound waves?
Washer-disinfector
Ultrasonic cleaning
Manual brushing
Immersion in disinfectant
Ultrasonic cleaners generate high-frequency sound waves in a liquid solution, creating cavitation bubbles that implode and effectively remove soil from instrument surfaces and crevices. This method is especially useful for complex instruments with lumens and hinges. It enhances cleaning before sterilization. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the ideal pH range of most enzymatic detergents used for instrument cleaning?
2.0–4.0
5.0–6.0
7.0–9.0
10.0–12.0
Enzymatic detergents typically have a near-neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.0–9.0), optimizing enzyme activity for protein and lipid breakdown. Too acidic or too alkaline solutions can denature the enzymes and damage instruments. Always verify pH per manufacturer instructions. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
How often should routine preventive maintenance be performed on sterilizers according to most manufacturer guidelines?
Daily
Weekly
Monthly or as specified by the manufacturer
Annually
Most sterilizer manufacturers recommend preventive maintenance at least monthly, though the exact frequency and tasks should follow the manufacturer’s validation and maintenance schedule. Regular checks help ensure cycle accuracy, prevent downtime, and extend equipment life. https://www.cdc.gov/hai/prevent/resource-limited/sterilization.html
What is the maximum recommended time instruments can remain moist before manual cleaning to prevent bioburden drying?
15 minutes
2 hours
8 hours
24 hours
Instruments should be processed and cleaned as soon as possible, but if delays occur, they should be held moist with an enzymatic soak for no longer than two hours to prevent bioburden from drying onto surfaces. Dried soil is more difficult to remove and can harbor pathogens. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which chemical is commonly used for high-level disinfection of flexible endoscopes?
Bleach solution
Quaternary ammonium compounds
Glutaraldehyde
Alcohol wipes
Glutaraldehyde is a widely used high-level disinfectant for flexible endoscopes due to its effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mycobacteria when used according to manufacturer instructions. It requires proper ventilation and contact times (usually 20–45 minutes). https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/endoscope-disinfection.html
Which of the following factors does NOT significantly affect steam sterilization efficacy?
Cycle exposure time
Ambient noise in the sterilizer room
Steam saturation and temperature
Load configuration and air removal
Ambient noise in the sterilizer room does not influence the physical or biological mechanisms of steam sterilization. Key factors include proper steam penetration, temperature, exposure time, air removal, and load arrangement. Anything unrelated to these parameters will not compromise sterilization. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What log reduction in microbial count is the minimum expected for a validated steam sterilization process?
3-log (99.9%)
6-log (99.9999%)
9-log (99.9999999%)
1-log (90%)
Validated steam sterilization processes typically achieve a 6-log reduction in resistant biological indicators (e.g., Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores), equating to a one-in-a-million chance of a viable organism surviving. This high level of kill is required for patient safety. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
In ultrasonic cleaning, what is the "shadowing effect"?
Uneven detergent concentration causing spots
Items blocking each other from cavitation waves
Residual bubbles adhering to instruments
Excessive heat buildup in the tank
The shadowing effect occurs when instruments are placed too close together or overlap in an ultrasonic cleaner, preventing cavitation bubbles from reaching certain areas. Proper spacing and rotation of items ensure uniform cleaning. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the recommended shelf life for a properly double-wrapped sterile instrument tray under controlled storage conditions?
30 days
6 months
12 months
Indefinite if undisturbed
Under controlled storage conditions (temperature, humidity, proper shelving), double-wrapped sterile trays generally have a 12-month shelf life as accepted by many facilities. Beyond that, the integrity of the packaging may be compromised. Always follow facility policy. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
In biological indicator processing, what result indicates a sterilization failure?
No color change or turbidity in the culture medium
Color change without turbidity
Turbidity in the culture medium
Clear culture medium under all conditions
Turbidity in the biological indicator culture medium indicates that spores survived the sterilization cycle and germinated. This result constitutes a sterilization failure and requires immediate investigation before reprocessing loads. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/monitoring.html
Which practice helps prevent cross-contamination in the sterile storage area?
Storing sterile and nonsterile items together
Using open shelving without doors
First-in, first-out rotation of stock
Increasing room temperature above 80°F
First-in, first-out (FIFO) rotation ensures older sterile packs are used before newer ones, reducing the risk of expired or compromised packages. Proper shelving, controlled environment, and avoiding mixed storage also prevent contamination. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the correct sequence of phases in a pre-vacuum steam sterilization cycle?
Exhaust, conditioning, exposure, drying
Conditioning, exposure, exhaust, drying
Exposure, conditioning, exhaust, drying
Conditioning, drying, exposure, exhaust
A pre-vacuum sterilizer cycle begins with conditioning (air removal and steam penetration), followed by exposure (holding time at target temperature), then exhaust (steam release), and finally drying. This sequence ensures effective sterilization and moisture removal. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/sterilization/steam.html
Which information must be included on a sterilization package label?
Operator’s birthday
Date and sterilizer cycle number
Patient's social security number
Color of the surgical drapes used
Sterilization package labels should include at minimum the date of sterilization, sterilizer or cycle number, and usually the operator’s initials. This information allows tracking and ensures traceability if a recall or investigation is needed. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the function of an air break in a washer-disinfector?
To inject hot air into the chamber
To prevent contaminated water from flowing back into potable supplies
To increase detergent concentration
To filter debris from instruments
An air break or air gap in plumbing prevents contaminated water from backflowing into the facility’s potable water supply. This device protects public health by ensuring that wastewater does not contaminate clean water. It is required by plumbing codes. https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/management/water-treatment.html
What is the recommended maximum relative humidity for a sterile storage area?
30%
50%
70%
90%
Sterile storage areas should maintain relative humidity below 70% to prevent microbial growth and moisture damage to packaging. High humidity can compromise package integrity and sterility. Temperature and humidity logs help monitor storage conditions. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
When should peel-pouch seals be inspected for integrity?
After every sterilization cycle
Before and after every cycle before use
Only upon purchase
Never, since they are disposable
Peel-pouch seals must be inspected before and after sterilization cycles to ensure there are no wrinkles, burred edges, or openings that could compromise sterility. Any compromised pouch must be reprocessed. Proper inspection prevents surgical site infections. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which instrument material is most susceptible to rust and corrosion if not properly dried?
Stainless steel
Titanium
Carbon steel
Chrome-plated steel
Carbon steel instruments are prone to rust and corrosion when moisture remains after sterilization or cleaning. They require thorough drying and application of a rust inhibitor or lubricant (e.g., instrument milk). Stainless steel and titanium are more corrosion-resistant. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the primary mechanism of microbial kill in peracetic acid sterilization?
Heat denaturation
Oxidation of cell membranes and proteins
Alkylation of DNA
Desiccation of cells
Peracetic acid kills microorganisms primarily by oxidation, disrupting cell membranes, denaturing proteins, and destroying enzymes. It is effective at low temperatures and leaves no toxic residues. This makes it suitable for heat-sensitive instruments. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html
How does the length and internal diameter of a lumen affect sterilization efficacy?
Longer lumens with smaller diameters increase sterilant penetration
Longer lumens with smaller diameters decrease sterilant penetration
Length and diameter have no effect
Shorter lumens always fail sterilization
Long, narrow lumens create flow resistance and reduce the velocity and contact of steam or liquid sterilants, making it harder to achieve complete sterilization. Special cycles and validated connectors are required for lumened instruments. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What parameter is specifically assessed by the Bowie-Dick test?
Steam temperature accuracy
Air removal and steam penetration in pre-vacuum sterilizers
Drying time sufficiency
Chemical indicator performance
The Bowie-Dick test challenges a vacuum-assisted steam sterilizer’s ability to remove air and allow steam penetration into a defined pack. A uniform color change across the test sheet indicates proper air removal. It does not assess temperature or dry time directly. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What is the most common cause of steam sterilization cycle failure?
Excessive sterilant concentration
Improper load arrangement leading to air pockets
Low environmental humidity
Overuse of biological indicators
Improper load arrangement can trap air pockets within or between items, preventing steam contact and leading to sterilization failures. Proper loading, spacing, and orientation are critical for effective steam penetration. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Under controlled storage, what is the generally accepted shelf life of double-wrapped linen packs?
7 days
30 days
90 days
180 days
Many institutions accept a 30-day shelf life for double-wrapped linen packs stored under controlled conditions. After this period, packages should be reprocessed to ensure integrity. Facility policies may vary, but 30 days is a common benchmark. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which biological indicator organism is used for hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization validation?
Geobacillus stearothermophilus
Bacillus subtilis
Clostridium perfringens
Mycobacterium smegmatis
Bacillus subtilis spores are used as biological indicators for low-temperature hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization because they are among the most resistant spores for that process. Monitoring ensures the sterilizer achieves the required kill. https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/plasma.html
How is contact time determined when using chemical disinfectants?
Based on instrument size
By the manufacturer’s label instructions
When the solution changes color
After 24 hours of immersion
Chemical disinfectants must be used according to the contact times and concentrations specified on their manufacturer’s label. These validated instructions ensure adequate microbial kill. Deviating from label instructions can result in ineffective disinfection. https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/understanding-e-pa-registered-disinfectants
Which ISO classification defines critical medical devices?
Devices that contact intact skin only
Devices that enter sterile tissue or the vascular system
Devices that contact mucous membranes only
Devices used for administrative tasks
Critical devices, as defined by Spaulding and recognized in ISO standards, are medical devices that enter sterile tissue or the vascular system. They must be sterilized because any microbial contamination can cause serious infection. https://www.who.int/infection-prevention/campaigns/core-components/technical-reference-list/en/
During a routine pre-vacuum sterilization cycle, what reading indicates successful air removal?
A vacuum pressure plateau above 27 inches of mercury
Chamber pressure remains at atmospheric level
Steam pressure exceeds 50 psi
Temperature drops below 100°C
Successful air removal in a pre-vacuum steam sterilizer is indicated by achieving and maintaining a vacuum pressure plateau above ~27 inches of mercury before steam admission. This confirms effective air removal for proper sterilant penetration. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which class of chemical indicator is designed to react to all critical variables of time, temperature, and steam?
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5 (integrating indicators)
Class 2 (Bowie-Dick)
Class 5 integrating indicators are designed to react to all critical parameters—time, temperature, and steam—providing a closer approximation of true sterilization conditions. They are placed inside loads to monitor each cycle. https://www.aami.org/standards/ANSI/AAMI_ST58
Which factor is most critical when sterilizing long lumened instruments?
External surface temperature
Internal surface contact with sterilant
Number of lumens per instrument
Ambient room humidity
Ensuring the sterilant reaches and contacts the internal lumen surfaces of long instruments is vital, because microbes can hide within the channels. This requires proper connectors, validated flush cycles, or specialized equipment. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What environmental monitoring is recommended for sterile storage areas?
Weekly pest inspections and annual dusting
Continuous temperature and humidity logging
Monthly air quality testing only
No monitoring if area is locked
Sterile storage areas should have continuous or daily monitoring of temperature and relative humidity to ensure conditions do not compromise package integrity. Proper logging and alarms help maintain a validated controlled environment. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
Which troubleshooting step is most appropriate when biological indicator tests repeatedly show growth despite correct sterilization parameters?
Discard the biological indicators and use new ones
Reduce sterilization temperature by 5°C
Verify biological indicator placement and sterilizer cycle performance
Switch to chemical indicators only
If biological indicators consistently show growth, it’s crucial to verify correct placement within the chamber, confirm sterilizer cycle parameters with physical and chemical indicators, and inspect equipment for air leaks or mechanical issues. Only after ruling out process or equipment problems should the BI batches themselves be questioned. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST79
What distinguishes supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO?) sterilization from traditional low-temperature methods?
It relies solely on radiation
Use of CO? above its critical temperature and pressure for sterilization
Has no penetration limits for lumens
Leaves toxic residues on instruments
Supercritical CO? sterilization operates above 31°C and 73 atm, where CO? attains properties of both a gas and a liquid, allowing rapid penetration and microbial inactivation without leaving harmful residues. It is suitable for heat- and moisture-sensitive devices. https://www.aami.org/standards/STERILIZATION
What does a sterility assurance level (SAL) of 10?? indicate for critical items?
One in a thousand chance of a viable microorganism surviving
One in a million chance of a viable microorganism surviving
Complete absence of viable microorganisms
1,000,000 survivors per load
An SAL of 10?? means there is no more than a one-in-a-million probability that a viable microorganism remains on the sterilized item. This is the standard target for critical medical devices entering sterile tissue. https://www.who.int/infection-prevention/campaigns/core-components/technical-reference-list/en/
Which root cause analysis approach is most effective following a sterilization failure incident?
Focusing solely on human operator error
Applying the Five Whys or Fishbone (Ishikawa) diagram to identify contributing factors
Changing to a different sterilization method immediately
Ignoring historical data
Using structured RCA tools such as the Five Whys or Fishbone diagram allows teams to identify not just the immediate cause but underlying system issues (process, equipment, training) that contributed to the failure. This comprehensive approach supports lasting corrective actions. https://www.jointcommission.org/resources/patient-safety-topics/root-cause-analysis/
Which practice best mitigates biofilm formation within instrument lumens during sterilization preparation?
Dry instruments immediately after use
Use only high-temperature sterilization
Perform thorough enzymatic cleaning followed by mechanical brushing or flushing
Soak in water only
Biofilms form when microorganisms adhere to surfaces and produce extracellular matrices. Thorough enzymatic cleaning combined with mechanical brushing or flushing of lumens disrupts and removes biofilms before sterilization. Effective biofilm control protects patient safety. https://www.cdc.gov/hai/prevent/resource-limited/sterilization.html
What is the minimum recommended aeration time for items sterilized with ethylene oxide according to ANSI/AAMI standards?
1 hour
4 hours
12 hours
72 hours
ANSI/AAMI ST41 recommends a minimum aeration time of 12 hours for ethylene oxide–sterilized items to allow residual gas to dissipate to safe levels. Some materials or packaging configurations may require longer aeration. Proper aeration prevents toxic exposure to patients and staff. https://www.aami.org/standards/ST41
0
{"name":"What is the primary purpose of the sterile processing department in a healthcare facility?", "url":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/QPREVIEW","txt":"What is the primary purpose of the sterile processing department in a healthcare facility?, Which temperature is recommended for steam sterilization in a standard gravity-displacement autoclave for unwrapped items?, What is the first step in manual cleaning of surgical instruments?","img":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/3012/images/ogquiz.png"}

Study Outcomes

  1. Assess CRCST Exam Readiness -

    Use the free CRCST practice test to measure your understanding of key sterile processing topics and gauge your overall preparedness for the certification exam.

  2. Evaluate Sterilization Techniques -

    Analyze various sterilization methods and principles to ensure proper instrument decontamination and patient safety in line with industry standards.

  3. Identify Infection Control Measures -

    Recognize essential infection control protocols and best practices to minimize contamination risks during sterile processing procedures.

  4. Analyze Equipment Maintenance Protocols -

    Examine routine cleaning, inspection, and maintenance requirements for sterile processing equipment to uphold functionality and compliance.

  5. Interpret Instant Feedback for Improvement -

    Leverage the quiz's immediate results to pinpoint knowledge gaps, refine your study focus, and track progress over time.

  6. Apply Sterile Processing Concepts in Exam Scenarios -

    Reinforce your skills by tackling realistic practice questions that mirror CRCST exam formats and challenge your problem-solving abilities.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Standard Precautions & Spaulding Classification -

    Review the CDC's Spaulding system that categorizes instruments as critical, semi”critical, or non”critical based on patient risk; critical items must be sterilized because they enter sterile body sites. Mnemonic: "C”S”N" helps you recall this order. Expect similar scenarios on your CRCST practice test to reinforce these fundamentals.

  2. Steam Sterilization Parameters -

    Memorize the key AAMI ST79 guidelines: 121°C for 30 minutes (gravity displacement) or 132°C for 4 minutes (pre”vacuum) ensures effective kill. Think "30 - 121" and "4 - 132" to ace that sterile processing practice test question on time”temperature relationships. Pressure in psi (15 - 17 psi) is also vital to monitor for consistent results.

  3. Chemical & Biological Indicators -

    Differentiate Class 4 - 6 chemical indicators for sterilization monitoring and use Geobacillus stearothermophilus biological indicators to validate efficacy. A handy mnemonic is "Classy Bacteria" to link chemical and BI checks. You'll encounter these in iahcsmm practice test case studies on load control.

  4. Washer”Disinfector Maintenance & Water Quality -

    Follow ISO 15883 and AAMI recommendations for daily checks: verify water purity (18 - 22 megohm resistance), temperature profiles, and spray arm integrity. A simple check chart nightly keeps your sterile processing practice exam performance sharp. Consistent maintenance prevents instrument corrosion and bioburden accumulation.

  5. Packaging, Storage & Inventory Control -

    Master proper wrapping techniques, seal patterns, and FIFO (first”in, first”out) stock rotation to maintain sterility up to shelf”life. Use the "Double”Wrap”Seal" mnemonic to recall packaging steps under IAHCSMM guidelines. These procedures frequently appear on CRCST practice test quizzes, so practice until it's second nature.

Make a Quiz (FREE) Copy & Edit This Quiz Create a Quiz with AI

Human Anatomy & Medicine Quizzes

Powered by: Quiz Maker