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Quizzes > Health & Medicine > Human Anatomy & Medicine

Master Sterile Processing: Take the CRCST Chapter 2 Quiz!

Think you can ace the ch 2 test? Tackle chapter 2 review questions and prove your skills!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration of sterile processing quiz header chapter 2 decontamination standards on dark blue background

Ready to boost your decontamination know-how and score higher on your sterile processing exam? Dive into our proprofs sterile processing quiz designed to test your mastery in Chapter 2. Whether you're prepping for a CRCST practice test or striving to ace the ch 2 test, this interactive challenge delivers targeted chapter 2 review questions on decontamination standards. Perfect for sterilization techs seeking a quick self-assessment, you'll reinforce protocols, identify knowledge gaps, and build confidence before your formal credentialing exam. Explore our free ch 2 test for instant feedback, or tackle detailed chapter 2 review questions at your own pace. Join now and start mastering sterile processing today!

What is the primary goal of the decontamination stage in sterile processing?
Achieve sterilization
Reduce bioburden
Dry instruments
Package instruments
The decontamination stage focuses on removing organic and inorganic material and reducing microbial load to safe levels before further processing. It is not intended to achieve sterilization, which is completed in later stages. Proper decontamination helps protect patients and staff by minimizing the risk of infection. CDC guidelines
According to AAMI ST79, the maximum temperature for manual cleaning solutions should not exceed:
40°F (4°C)
75°F (24°C)
110°F (43°C)
150°F (66°C)
AAMI ST79 recommends that manual cleaning solutions should not exceed 110°F (43°C) to prevent protein coagulation on instrument surfaces and protect staff from scalding. Temperatures above this threshold can denature proteins, making bioburden harder to remove. Maintaining appropriate temperatures optimizes the cleaning efficacy of detergents. AAMI standards
Which personal protective equipment is mandatory during manual cleaning of surgical instruments?
Lead apron
Nitrile gloves
Face shield
Disposable shoe covers
Nitrile gloves provide chemical and barrier protection against contaminated fluids during manual cleaning. While face shields and gowns may also be used, gloves are mandatory to protect staff from exposure. Lead aprons and shoe covers are not required for basic manual cleaning tasks. CDC PPE guidance
In sterile processing, what does the term "bioburden" refer to?
The number of viable microorganisms and organic material on a surface prior to cleaning
The pH of cleaning solution
The amount of detergent used
The duration of the sterilization cycle
Bioburden is defined as the quantity of microorganisms and organic material on a device before cleaning. Accurate assessment of bioburden is critical because it impacts the effectiveness of subsequent cleaning and sterilization processes. Reducing bioburden is the primary objective of decontamination. CDC decontamination resources
Ultrasonic cleaners assist in decontamination by generating:
High-frequency radio waves
Cavitation bubbles
Direct heat
Laser energy
Ultrasonic cleaners use cavitation, the formation and collapse of microscopic bubbles, to dislodge soil from instrument surfaces. This mechanical action enhances cleaning efficiency in cracks and joints where manual methods may fail. Ultrasonic cleaning does not rely on heat or electromagnetic radiation for decontamination. FDA ultrasonic cleaner guidance
Which type of detergent is most commonly used in the enzymatic pre-cleaning of surgical instruments?
Acidic detergent
Enzymatic detergent
Quaternary ammonium detergent
Alcohol-based detergent
Enzymatic detergents contain enzymes such as proteases and lipases that break down organic soils like blood and tissue on instruments. They are specifically formulated to target proteins, fats, and carbohydrates at low temperatures. Acidic or quaternary ammonium detergents are less effective for heavy organic loads. CDC cleaning guidelines
What is the recommended minimum contact time for enzymatic detergents during manual instrument cleaning?
1 minute
5 minutes
10 minutes
30 minutes
A minimum contact time of 10 minutes allows enzymatic detergents to adequately hydrolyze and loosen proteins, lipids, and other organic materials. Shorter durations may fail to fully activate the enzymes, reducing cleaning efficacy. Adhering to manufacturer recommendations optimizes decontamination outcomes. AORN cleaning guidelines
Which AAMI standard provides comprehensive guidelines for steam sterilization and decontamination processes in healthcare facilities?
AAMI ST46
AAMI ST79
AAMI ST58
AAMI ST65
AAMI ST79 is the primary consensus document that outlines best practices for steam sterilization, including decontamination and preparation of medical devices. It covers facility requirements, device cleaning, sterilization processes, and routine monitoring. Other standards address specific device types or processes but ST79 is the most comprehensive. AAMI standards overview
The ideal pH range for most enzymatic cleaning solutions in decontamination is:
2.0–4.0
5.0–6.0
7.5–9.5
11.0–12.5
Most enzymatic detergents are formulated to be near neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7.5–9.5) to optimize the activity of protease and lipase enzymes. Extremes of pH can denature enzymes, decreasing their effectiveness. Maintaining proper pH is critical for consistent cleaning performance. CDC cleaning guidelines
Which regulation mandates that a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) be accessible for all chemicals used in the decontamination area?
FDA CFR Title 21
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard 1910.1200
AAMI ST79
CDC Disinfection Guidelines
OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (1910.1200) requires employers to maintain readily accessible Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous chemicals, including cleaning agents in decontamination. SDS provide detailed information on chemical hazards, safe handling, and emergency measures. This ensures worker safety and regulatory compliance. OSHA Hazard Communication
What is the maximum filter pore size required for final rinse water in washer-disinfectors to ensure optimal decontamination?
0.2 microns
3 microns
10 microns
50 microns
A maximum pore size of 3 microns in final rinse filters helps remove particulate matter and potential bioburden prior to sterilization. Smaller pores may clog rapidly, while larger pores may not adequately remove debris. Maintaining the correct filter size is essential for consistent cleaning quality. AAMI ST79
Which practice is most effective in preventing biofilm formation within automated washer-disinfectors?
Using high-temperature water only
Frequent cleaning and scheduled maintenance
Using distilled water exclusively
Extending sterilization cycles
Regular cleaning and scheduled preventive maintenance of washer-disinfectors remove residual soils and prevent biofilm accumulation on internal surfaces. Biofilm can harbor microorganisms and reduce decontamination efficacy. High temperatures alone may not reach all areas, making maintenance crucial. CDC biofilm prevention
What frequency range is most commonly used in hospital-grade ultrasonic cleaners for surgical instruments?
10–15 kHz
25–40 kHz
50–70 kHz
100–120 kHz
Most hospital-grade ultrasonic cleaners operate in the 25–40 kHz range, balancing cavitation strength and noise levels. Lower frequencies can damage delicate instruments, while higher frequencies may produce insufficient cleaning agitation. This range optimizes soil removal without harming device integrity. FDA ultrasonic cleaner guidance
According to Spaulding classification, which category of instruments requires at least high-level disinfection during the decontamination process?
Non-critical
Semi-critical
Critical
Disposable
Semi-critical instruments contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin and therefore require high-level disinfection or sterilization. Critical instruments must be sterilized, while non-critical items only need low-level disinfection. Understanding Spaulding categories ensures appropriate decontamination protocols. CDC Spaulding classification
What is the maximum acceptable residual protein level (bioburden indicator) on instruments after cleaning, as per most quality control protocols?
?6.4 µg
?12.8 µg
?25.6 µg
?50 µg
Quality control studies often use residual protein tests, with levels at or below 6.4 µg indicating effective cleaning. Higher protein residues suggest inadequate removal of organic soils and increase infection risk. Instruments exceeding this threshold require reprocessing. AAMI journal articles
For high-level disinfection in manual immersion, what concentration of glutaraldehyde is typically recommended?
0.05%
1%
2%
5%
A 2% glutaraldehyde solution is commonly used for high-level disinfection when immersing semi-critical devices. It effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and mycobacteria in recommended contact times. Lower concentrations may not achieve high-level disinfection, while higher concentrations increase toxicity. CDC high-level disinfection
Which factor most significantly enhances the enzymatic activity of cleaning solutions to improve bioburden removal?
Lower water hardness
Elevated temperature
Reduced detergent volume
Increased instrument load
Enzyme reactions are temperature dependent, with moderate increases in temperature (typically 35–45°C) accelerating the breakdown of organic soils. While water hardness and detergent volume also impact cleaning, temperature has the greatest effect on enzymatic hydrolysis. Maintaining recommended temperatures optimizes decontamination. CDC cleaning guidelines
According to AAMI ST79, what is the maximum allowable total organic carbon (TOC) level in final rinse water used for decontamination?
100 µg/L
500 µg/L
1,000 µg/L
5,000 µg/L
AAMI ST79 specifies a maximum TOC level of 500 µg/L for final rinse water to minimize residual organic contamination on devices. Elevated TOC levels can inhibit sterilant efficacy and promote microbial growth. Regular monitoring of water quality ensures compliance and patient safety. AAMI standards
The use of alternating alkaline and acidic cycles in automated washer-disinfectors primarily helps to:
Enhance instrument lubrication
Prevent instrument corrosion and remove mineral scale
Shorten cleaning cycle times
Sterilize instruments
Alternating alkaline and acidic wash cycles help dissolve organic soils with alkaline detergents and remove mineral scale deposits with acidic detergents. This combination reduces corrosion, prevents biofilm, and maintains instrument integrity. It does not sterilize instruments but improves cleaning efficiency. AAMI ST79
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Study Outcomes

  1. Analyze Decontamination Protocols -

    Break down the CRCST Chapter 2 decontamination standards as presented in the ProProfs sterile processing quiz to reinforce your understanding of each critical step.

  2. Identify Cleaning Techniques -

    Recognize and differentiate the correct instrument cleaning methods featured in the ch 2 test to ensure effective removal of biological contaminants.

  3. Apply Inspection Checklists -

    Use CRCST practice test scenarios to perform detailed inspections of surgical instruments, spotting defects and ensuring functionality before sterilization.

  4. Evaluate Sterilization Indicators -

    Interpret both biological and chemical indicator results from chapter 2 review questions to confirm proper sterilization outcomes.

  5. Demonstrate Compliance with Standards -

    Verify adherence to regulatory requirements and best practices by applying concepts learned through the free ProProfs sterile processing quiz.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Understanding the Spaulding Classification System -

    Mastering the Spaulding Classification is essential for your proprofs sterile processing ch 2 test and CRCST practice test questions. This system sorts instruments into Critical, Semi-critical, and Non-critical categories based on invasion risk. Mnemonic "CSN" (Critical-Semi-Non-critical) helps you recall which items require sterilization versus high-level disinfection (CDC, 2008).

  2. Manual Cleaning & ATP Monitoring -

    Effective manual cleaning removes bioburden before chemical or thermal disinfection. Use adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing with a pass threshold of <200 RLUs to verify cleanliness (AAMI ST79). A quick phrase like "Swipe, Score, Safe" reminds you to swab, measure RLU, and confirm safety.

  3. Washer-Disinfector Cycle Validation -

    AAMI ST79 recommends thermal disinfection at 160°F (71°C) for at least one minute to achieve ≥6 log reduction in vegetative bacteria. Always check temperature probes and cycle printouts for every load to ensure consistent results. Knowing this parameter can boost confidence on chapter 2 review questions.

  4. Chemical High-Level Disinfection Principles -

    Common high-level disinfectants include 2% glutaraldehyde with a 20-minute contact time and 0.2% peracetic acid for 12 minutes at room temperature (CDC). Always verify concentration with test strips before use. Remember "2-20" (2% for 20 min) as a quick recall for glutaraldehyde.

  5. PPE & Bloodborne Pathogen Precautions -

    OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) mandates gown, gloves, and eye protection (G2E) during decontamination. Always don heavy-duty utility gloves when handling instruments and use splash shields for aerosol prevention. A simple rhyme "Gown, Gloves, Goggles - Go!" helps you stay compliant and safe.

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