Practice Test Geeks(IAHCSMM) International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Manage Practice Test
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Infection Prevention and Microbiology Flashcards

7 cards from real IAHCSMM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Infection Prevention and Microbiology flashcards as text

  1. A healthcare worker experiences a needlestick injury in the decontamination area. The FIRST action should be to:

    Answer: Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water

    Immediate thorough washing of the wound with soap and water is the first priority following a needlestick or sharps injury.

  2. Which of the following viruses is classified as non-enveloped and is therefore MORE resistant to disinfection?

    Answer: Norovirus

    Non-enveloped viruses like norovirus lack a lipid envelope, making them harder to destroy with many common disinfectants.

  3. The process by which bacteria transfer genetic material (including antibiotic resistance genes) between cells is called:

    Answer: Conjugation

    Conjugation involves direct cell-to-cell contact and transfer of plasmid DNA, rapidly spreading antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria.

  4. Which cleaning method is MOST effective for removing protein-based soils from surgical instruments before sterilization?

    Answer: Enzymatic detergent soaking followed by mechanical scrubbing

    Enzymatic detergents break down protein-based bioburden and, combined with mechanical action, provide the most effective soil removal.

  5. Clostridium difficile (C. diff) spores in a patient care environment are BEST eliminated by:

    Answer: EPA-registered sporicidal agents (e.g., bleach-based)

    C. difficile spores are resistant to many common disinfectants and require EPA-registered sporicidal agents such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach) for elimination.

  6. When is it appropriate for a CS technician to use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) respirator in their role?

    Answer: When processing items used on patients with known airborne infections such as tuberculosis

    HEPA/N95 respirators are indicated when handling items contaminated with airborne pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

  7. Which of the following BEST describes the difference between sterilization and disinfection?

    Answer: Sterilization destroys ALL microbial life including spores; disinfection does not guarantee spore elimination

    Sterilization achieves destruction of all microbial life including resistant spores, whereas disinfection reduces microbial load but does not reliably eliminate spores.