CMDRT - Certified Medical Device Reprocessing Technician Steam Sterilization Principles Questions and Answers

Question 1

A technician observes that several wrapped instrument trays emerging from a steam sterilizer cycle are damp.
This phenomenon is known as a 'wet pack'.
What is the most significant risk associated with a wet pack?

Accepted Answer

It can act as a pathway for microorganisms to contaminate the instruments.

Answer

It can cause corrosion on the stainless steel instruments.

Answer

It indicates the sterilizer is using too much water.

Answer

It requires a longer cooling time before the instruments can be used.

Question 2

Which of the following is the most critical factor for achieving sterility in an autoclave, often referred to as the 'sterilant'?

Accepted Answer

Saturated steam

Answer

High pressure

Answer

Dry heat

Answer

Extended time

Question 3

A dynamic air removal (prevacuum) steam sterilizer is preferred over a gravity displacement sterilizer for sterilizing complex instruments with lumens primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Actively removes air, ensuring better steam penetration.

Answer

Operates at a much lower temperature.

Answer

Uses less steam, making it more cost-effective.

Answer

Passively allows steam to displace the air.

Question 4

What is the function of a biological indicator (BI) in a steam sterilization quality assurance program?

Accepted Answer

To prove that the most resistant microorganisms, such as Geobacillus stearothermophilus, have been killed.

Answer

To verify that the correct temperature was reached during the cycle.

Answer

To confirm that packages are completely dry after the sterilization cycle.

Answer

To provide an immediate, color-change readout indicating steam presence.

Question 5

During a steam sterilization cycle, the presence of residual air in the chamber acts as an insulator. What is the primary negative consequence of this insulation effect?

Accepted Answer

It prevents the saturated steam from making direct contact with item surfaces.

Answer

It causes the cycle to run for a longer time.

Answer

It increases the pressure inside the sterilizer chamber.

Answer

It leads to excessive condensation and wet packs.

Question 6

A hospital's MDRD is processing a load containing both metal instruments and porous textile items. Which type of steam sterilization cycle is most appropriate for this mixed load?

Accepted Answer

A dynamic air removal (prevacuum) cycle

Answer

A gravity displacement cycle

Answer

A flash sterilization cycle

Answer

A dry heat sterilization cycle