Free AAMA Infection Control, Medical Asepsis, and Sterilization Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of medical asepsis?

Accepted Answer

To reduce the number of pathogens and prevent their spread

Answer

To destroy all microorganisms and spores on an object

Answer

To sterilize the skin before a surgical procedure

Answer

To isolate patients with communicable diseases

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of a fomite in the chain of infection?

Accepted Answer

A contaminated examination room countertop

Answer

A mosquito carrying the West Nile virus

Answer

A patient with influenza

Answer

A cough from an infected person

Question 3

What is the most critical difference between disinfection and sterilization?

Accepted Answer

Sterilization kills bacterial spores, while disinfection does not.

Answer

Disinfection uses chemicals, while sterilization uses heat.

Answer

Disinfection is for surfaces, while sterilization is for instruments.

Answer

Sterilization is a faster process than disinfection.

Question 4

According to Standard Precautions, when should a medical assistant perform hand hygiene?

Accepted Answer

Before and after every patient encounter

Answer

Only after contact with a patient in isolation

Answer

Only when hands are visibly soiled

Answer

At the beginning and end of the workday

Question 5

An autoclave is used to sterilize medical instruments. What mechanism does it use?

Accepted Answer

Steam under pressure

Answer

Dry heat

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas

Answer

Ultraviolet radiation

Question 6

When removing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which item should be removed first to minimize self-contamination?

Accepted Answer

Gloves

Answer

Mask or respirator

Answer

Gown

Answer

Goggles or face shield