CER Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CER facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When connecting an endoscope to an AER, which action is most critical for ensuring effective channel reprocessing? → Attaching all channel connectors according to the manufacturer's IFU
2. Which of the following statements about alcohol (70% isopropyl) as a disinfectant for endoscopes is CORRECT? → Alcohol is used as a drying agent after HLD but does not itself provide HLD
3. What is the purpose of using a test strip (MEC strip) before each use of a HLD solution? → To verify the active ingredient concentration meets the minimum effective level
4. When performing high-level disinfection in an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER), which step must be verified manually before loading the scope? → That thorough manual cleaning and leak testing have been completed
5. In infection control, the term 'reservoir' refers to: → The person, animal, or environment where an infectious agent normally lives and multiplies
6. What is the maximum recommended height for stacking endoscope transport containers to prevent damage? → Single layer only
7. A steady stream of bubbles rising from the universal cord during a leak test most likely indicates: → A breach in the outer sheath of the universal cord
8. An endoscope is identified as 'semi-critical' under the Spaulding classification. What is the MINIMUM required level of reprocessing? → High-level disinfection (HLD)
9. When validating an AER after installation, which parameter must be confirmed to meet manufacturer specifications? → Disinfectant contact time and concentration
10. What material are the articulating rings within an endoscope's bending section most commonly made of? → Stainless steel
11. What is the appropriate response when a chemical test strip for glutaraldehyde reads below the MEC but is within its expiration date? → Retest with a new test strip; if it still fails, discard the solution and document
12. Which condition MOST compromises the efficacy of chemical sterilization? → Residual organic soil or biofilm on the endoscope surfaces
13. During a facility renovation, the endoscope storage area must temporarily relocate. Which factor is most critical when selecting a temporary storage location? → Maintaining a clean environment with appropriate temperature, humidity, and ventilation
14. What action should be taken if the endoscope fails the leak test? → Remove the scope from service and send for repair before further use
15. What is the primary reason the decontamination area should be physically separated from the clean assembly and storage area? → To prevent cross-contamination between soiled and cleaned/sterile items
16. What does "deflection" refer to in the context of flexible endoscopes? → The ability of the endoscope tip to bend
17. A reprocessing technician notices the MEC test strip shows the glutaraldehyde solution is below the minimum effective concentration. What is the correct action? → Discard the solution and prepare a fresh batch
18. Which enzyme is most important in enzymatic detergents used for endoscope pre-cleaning? → Protease
19. When using an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER), which action is the technician's responsibility after the cycle ends? → Verify cycle completion, document results, and dry the scope per protocol
20. What is the recommended minimum number of sinks in the decontamination area of an endoscope reprocessing room? → Two sinks — one for washing, one for rinsing
21. Which statement accurately describes the sporicidal activity of OPA compared to glutaraldehyde? → OPA has limited sporicidal activity, making it suitable for HLD but not sterilization
22. What is the significance of a 'D-value' (decimal reduction time) in microbiology? → Time required to reduce a microbial population by 90% (1 log)
23. Which route of transmission is most commonly associated with endoscope-related infections? → Contact transmission via the contaminated endoscope's channels and surfaces
24. What is the significance of the 'leak test' in relation to manual cleaning? → It detects damage to the scope's protective sheath before immersion in cleaning solutions
25. Which microorganism category is most resistant to high-level disinfectants and requires sterilization rather than HLD? → Bacterial endospores
26. Which sterilization method produces the fewest environmental and occupational safety concerns? → Hydrogen peroxide plasma (STERRAD)
27. What does 'bioburden' refer to in the context of endoscope decontamination? → The total number of viable microorganisms on the endoscope before reprocessing
28. If an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER) cycle is interrupted before completion, what must be done? → The scope must be manually reprocessed from the beginning
29. A new reprocessing area is being built. The soiled utility room will share a wall with the clean storage room. What design feature is essential? → Separate, dedicated ventilation systems for each room
30. Which tool is used to inspect the biopsy channel interior of a flexible endoscope for retained soil? → Channel inspection scope (mini-endoscope) or borescope