CER High-Level Disinfection Processes Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the minimum effective concentration (MEC) for glutaraldehyde used in high-level disinfection?

Accepted Answer

1.5% (most products require ≥1.5% per EPA label)

Answer

0.5%

Answer

1.0%

Answer

3.4% always

Question 2

What is the contact time for ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA) at room temperature for high-level disinfection?

Accepted Answer

12 minutes at ≥20°C (per FDA clearance and manufacturer IFU)

Answer

5 minutes

Answer

20 minutes at room temperature

Answer

45 minutes at room temperature

Question 3

Why must endoscopes be thoroughly rinsed after HLD with glutaraldehyde or OPA?

Accepted Answer

To remove chemical residues that can cause patient injury such as colitis or mucosal irritation

Answer

To activate the disinfectant inside the channels

Answer

To lower the temperature of the scope before use

Answer

To check for channel blockages

Question 4

Which professional organization publishes guidelines specifically for endoscope reprocessing for GI endoscopy settings?

Accepted Answer

SGNA (Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates)

Answer

APIC only

Answer

OSHA only

Answer

AORN only

Question 5

What is the maximum reuse life of most glutaraldehyde solutions used for HLD?

Accepted Answer

14–28 days per manufacturer IFU, provided concentration remains above MEC on each test

Answer

7 days from preparation

Answer

6 months if stored in a dark container

Answer

Unlimited if stored correctly

Question 6

What is the difference between 'disinfection' and 'sterilization' in the context of endoscope reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

Disinfection reduces most microorganisms but does not reliably eliminate all spores; sterilization destroys or inactivates all forms of microbial life including spores

Answer

There is no practical difference

Answer

Sterilization is only used for surfaces, disinfection for instruments

Answer

Disinfection is more effective than sterilization