CIS Instrument Manufacturing and Repair Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What type of stainless steel is most commonly used in the manufacturing of surgical instruments?

Accepted Answer

Type 420 martensitic stainless steel

Answer

Type 304 austenitic stainless steel

Answer

Type 316 marine-grade stainless steel

Answer

Type 201 low-nickel stainless steel

Question 2

What is the passivation process in surgical instrument manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

Creating a protective chromium oxide layer through chemical treatment

Answer

Coating instruments with a layer of chrome

Answer

Annealing the steel at high temperatures

Answer

Applying a non-stick coating to prevent tissue adhesion

Question 3

What is the purpose of tungsten carbide inserts in needle holders and scissors?

Accepted Answer

To provide superior hardness and wear resistance at the working surface

Answer

To reduce the overall weight of the instrument

Answer

To make the instrument easier to sterilize

Answer

To improve the instrument's electrical conductivity

Question 4

When should an instrument be retired from service rather than repaired?

Accepted Answer

When repair costs approach replacement value or structural integrity is irreversibly compromised

Answer

After exactly 10 years of use

Answer

When any minor surface scratch is detected

Answer

Only when the manufacturer issues a recall

Question 5

What is the forging process in surgical instrument manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

Shaping heated steel blanks under high pressure using dies

Answer

Casting molten steel into molds

Answer

Welding multiple steel pieces together

Answer

Cutting instruments from flat sheet steel with lasers

Question 6

What is the purpose of instrument lubrication (instrument milk) during reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

To protect moving parts, prevent corrosion, and ensure smooth mechanical function

Answer

To make instruments look shiny and new

Answer

To replace the passivation layer after each use

Answer

To seal micro-cracks in the metal surface