Sterilization & Infection Control Flashcards

What is the most reliable method of sterilization?

Answer: Steam under pressure (autoclave)

Steam sterilization, using an autoclave, is considered the most reliable and effective method for sterilizing heat- and moisture-stable medical instruments. The combination of high temperature and pressure ensures the destruction of all microorganisms, including spores, which are highly resistant. This method is crucial in surgical settings to prevent surgical site infections.

Why is hand hygiene important in infection control?

Answer: It reduces the spread of pathogens

Hand hygiene, including handwashing and the use of alcohol-based hand rubs, is the single most effective measure to prevent the spread of infections. Healthcare professionals' hands can easily transfer pathogens from one patient or surface to another. Proper hand hygiene significantly reduces the microbial load, thereby minimizing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

How should instruments be positioned in the autoclave?

Answer: Loosely arranged to allow steam circulation

For effective steam sterilization, steam must be able to penetrate all surfaces of the instruments. Tightly packed or stacked instruments can create air pockets or block steam flow, preventing proper sterilization. Loosely arranging instruments ensures maximum exposure to steam, guaranteeing that all items reach the required temperature and pressure for microbial destruction.

What is the role of biological indicators in sterilization?

Answer: To confirm all microbes are destroyed

Biological indicators (BIs) contain highly resistant bacterial spores and are used to provide the highest level of assurance that sterilization conditions were met and all microorganisms, including spores, have been destroyed. Unlike chemical indicators, BIs directly test the lethality of the sterilization process. A negative BI result confirms the effectiveness of the sterilizer.

Which PPE is essential during decontamination?

Answer: Gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection

Decontamination involves handling potentially infectious materials, requiring comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect healthcare workers. Gloves prevent skin contact with contaminants, gowns protect clothing, and masks and eye protection shield mucous membranes from splashes or aerosols. This full ensemble minimizes exposure risks and ensures safety during the cleaning process.

Why should you never recap used needles?

Answer: To avoid accidental needle sticks

Recapping used needles is a dangerous practice that significantly increases the risk of accidental needle sticks, which can lead to exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Healthcare protocols mandate immediate disposal of used sharps into puncture-resistant containers without recapping. This prevents injuries and protects healthcare personnel from potential infections.

How should contaminated instruments be transported?

Answer: In a closed, leak-proof container

Contaminated instruments must be transported in a manner that prevents exposure to personnel and the environment. Using a closed, leak-proof container prevents spills of blood or body fluids and minimizes the risk of accidental punctures or contact with pathogens. This practice is essential for maintaining infection control and workplace safety.

What does a chemical indicator show?

Answer: Conditions for sterilization were met

Chemical indicators (CIs) are designed to change color or form when exposed to specific sterilization parameters, such as temperature, time, or steam. They provide immediate visual confirmation that the items have been exposed to the sterilization process. While they don't confirm sterility, they indicate that the physical conditions necessary for sterilization were achieved inside the package.

Which action best prevents surgical site infection?

Answer: Using sterile technique and hand hygiene

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major concern in healthcare, and their prevention relies heavily on strict adherence to sterile technique and meticulous hand hygiene. Sterile technique minimizes the introduction of microorganisms into the surgical field, while hand hygiene reduces the pathogen load on healthcare workers' hands. These combined practices are fundamental to patient safety during surgery.