FREE HSPA Decontamination and Cleaning Verification Questions and Answers

Question 1

The first and most important step in the decontamination process, which should begin immediately after a surgical procedure, is called:

Accepted Answer

Point-of-use treatment

Answer

Terminal sterilization

Answer

Manual disinfection

Answer

Mechanical washing

Question 2

When transporting contaminated instruments from the point of use to the decontamination area, the cart or container must be:

Accepted Answer

Covered, leak-proof, and labeled with a biohazard symbol

Answer

Open to allow for air drying

Answer

Kept at a warm temperature to inhibit bacterial growth

Answer

Sprayed with a high-level disinfectant before transport

Question 3

Enzymatic detergents are used in the cleaning process to:

Accepted Answer

Break down and remove protein-based soils

Answer

Disinfect instruments at low temperatures

Answer

Act as a lubricant for automated washers

Answer

Sterilize heat-sensitive items

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of using a cleaning verification test, such as an ATP or protein test, after the cleaning process?

Accepted Answer

To verify the removal of microscopic soil and bioburden

Answer

To confirm the sterility of the instrument

Answer

To measure the pH of the cleaning detergent

Answer

To check the water temperature of the washer-disinfector

Question 5

The process of cavitation, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create and implode microscopic bubbles, is the cleaning mechanism for which piece of equipment?

Accepted Answer

Ultrasonic cleaner

Answer

Steam sterilizer

Answer

Cart washer

Answer

Washer-disinfector

Question 6

During manual cleaning, instruments should be brushed:

Accepted Answer

Under the surface of the water

Answer

With a vigorous back-and-forth motion above the water

Answer

Using a dry brush before immersion

Answer

Only after they have been through an automated washer

Question 7

For enzymatic detergents to be most effective, the water temperature should generally be:

Accepted Answer

Lukewarm (109°F - 140°F / 43°C - 60°C)

Answer

Cold (below 60°F / 15°C)

Answer

Hot (150°F - 170°F / 65°C - 77°C)

Answer

Boiling (212°F / 100°C)