Equipment Maintenance Flashcards
7 cards from real CRCST practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Equipment Maintenance flashcards as text
Why must powered surgical instruments be tested for proper function before sterilization?
Answer: To identify malfunctions before the instrument reaches the sterile field
Function testing before sterilization ensures defective instruments are caught in CS rather than discovered during surgery.
A stainless steel basin is returned with a white mineral deposit residue. What is the most likely cause?
Answer: Hard water mineral buildup from the wash cycle
White mineral deposits on instruments and basins are typically caused by hard water mineral residues left after washing.
What is the purpose of the 'leak test' performed on flexible endoscopes?
Answer: To confirm the scope is watertight before immersion reprocessing
The leak test detects breaches in the scope's protective sheath that would allow reprocessing fluids to enter and damage internal components.
Which action is required when a sterilizer door gasket shows visible cracks or deformation?
Answer: Replace the gasket immediately and remove the sterilizer from service until repaired
A damaged door gasket compromises the sterilizer's ability to achieve and maintain required pressure and temperature, requiring immediate repair.
Which sterilization monitoring method provides the highest level of assurance that sterilization conditions were met?
Answer: Biological indicator (BI)
Biological indicators use actual spores to challenge the sterilization process and provide the highest assurance that microorganisms were killed.
A CS technician finds an instrument set missing one clamp after counting. What is the correct action?
Answer: Hold the set and complete a thorough search before notifying the charge nurse
Missing instruments require a thorough search and supervisory notification before any set is released, to prevent a retained foreign body risk.
How should sharp instruments be positioned in a sterilization tray to prevent injury and damage?
Answer: Tips protected in foam tip protectors or positioned downward in holders
Sharp tips must be protected with tip guards or tip-down positioning to prevent injury to staff and damage to instrument edges.