CST Sterilization & Infection Control — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of sterilization in surgical settings?
- Clean visible debris
- Disinfect surfaces
- Lubricate instruments
- Eliminate all microorganisms (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Eliminate all microorganisms
Sterilization destroys all forms of microbial life, including spores, to prevent surgical site infections.
Question 2: Which sterilization method uses pressurized steam?
- Gas plasma
- Dry heat
- Autoclave (Correct answer)
- Chemical soak
Correct answer: Autoclave
Autoclaving is a common and effective method using high-pressure steam to sterilize surgical instruments.
Question 3: Why are biological indicators used in sterilization monitoring?
- Check packaging integrity
- Test chemical residue
- Confirm sterility with living organisms (Correct answer)
- Ensure temperature calibration
Correct answer: Confirm sterility with living organisms
Biological indicators verify that sterilization has effectively destroyed all microbial life, including spores.
Question 4: What is considered a breach in aseptic technique?
- Double gloving
- Changing masks
- Touching sterile items with unsterile gloves (Correct answer)
- Using sterile drapes
Correct answer: Touching sterile items with unsterile gloves
Touching a sterile item with unsterile gloves introduces contaminants, compromising sterility.
Question 5: Which item should be checked before opening a sterile package?
- The barcode
- The expiration date
- The outer wrap for damage (Correct answer)
- The material color
Correct answer: The outer wrap for damage
Checking the integrity of the packaging ensures it has not been compromised and remains sterile.
Question 6: Why is hand hygiene critical in infection control?
- To remove glove residue
- To prepare for documentation
- To reduce contamination risk (Correct answer)
- To keep hands moisturized
Correct answer: To reduce contamination risk
Hand hygiene removes transient microorganisms and reduces the risk of spreading infection.
CST Sterilization & Infection Control
What is the primary purpose of sterilization in surgical settings?