Equipment Maintenance Flashcards

What does 'loaner instrument' management require before the set is used in surgery?

Answer: Decontamination, inspection, and sterilization per facility protocol

Loaner instruments must be fully decontaminated, inspected, and sterilized by the receiving facility regardless of the vendor's claims.

Which parameter is NOT monitored during a standard steam sterilization cycle?

Answer: pH of steam condensate

Steam sterilization cycles monitor temperature, time, and pressure; pH of steam condensate is not a standard cycle parameter.

A technician notices a flexible endoscope has discoloration inside the insertion tube. What should be done?

Answer: Remove from service and notify biomedical engineering or the manufacturer

Internal discoloration may indicate damage or contamination that requires expert evaluation before the scope can be safely reprocessed and used.

What is the recommended action when a sterilizer load fails a biological indicator (BI) test?

Answer: Quarantine all items from that load and investigate per protocol

A failed BI requires quarantine of all items from the load and a full investigation before any items can be released for use.

Which of the following is a sign of instrument metal fatigue requiring removal from service?

Answer: Hairline cracks at the jaw or hinge area

Hairline cracks at stress points like jaws or hinges indicate metal fatigue and can cause instrument failure during surgery.

What is the correct frequency for replacing washer-disinfector detergent and rinse aid according to best practice?

Answer: Monitor levels daily and replenish per manufacturer specifications

Daily monitoring and replenishment per manufacturer specifications ensures consistent chemical concentration for effective cleaning.

Which type of sterilization wrap should be rejected during inspection?

Answer: Wrap with holes, tears, or stains

Holes, tears, or stains compromise the microbial barrier of the wrap and the sterility of the contents.