Infection Control & Sterilization in Laser Therapy Flashcards
7 cards from real CLT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Infection Control & Sterilization in Laser Therapy flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of infection control protocols in a laser therapy practice?
Answer: To prevent transmission of pathogens between patients and practitioners
Infection control protocols exist to prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens between patients, staff, and the clinical environment.
Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered MOST critical for a laser therapist during a treatment session?
Answer: Wavelength-specific optical safety goggles
Wavelength-specific safety goggles are paramount because laser radiation can cause irreversible retinal damage in a fraction of a second.
What is the correct protocol for managing laser probes between patient uses?
Answer: Disinfect per manufacturer guidelines and applicable infection control standards
Manufacturer-specified cleaning and disinfection procedures ensure the probe material is preserved while achieving the required microbial reduction.
According to the Spaulding Classification, what level of disinfection is required for a non-critical laser probe that only contacts intact, unbroken skin?
Answer: Low-level or intermediate-level disinfection
Non-critical items contacting only intact skin present the lowest infection risk and require only low-level or intermediate-level disinfection.
When treating a patient with an open wound in the target area, what additional infection control measures should a CLT implement?
Answer: Use sterile gloves and single-use probe covers or sterile barrier sheaths
Open wounds compromise the skin's natural barrier, requiring sterile gloves and disposable probe covers to prevent introducing pathogens into the wound.
Which cleaning agent should be used on environmental contact surfaces (treatment table, equipment controls) between patient sessions?
Answer: An EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant
EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectants are validated to kill target pathogens on environmental surfaces and meet regulatory infection control requirements.
What is the correct hand hygiene sequence when transitioning from one patient to the next?
Answer: Remove gloves, perform hand hygiene, then don fresh gloves for the next patient
Removing gloves and performing hand hygiene before donning new gloves eliminates any pathogens that may have penetrated microscopic glove defects.