IAHCSMM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield IAHCSMM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the primary advantage of using a computerized inventory management system in central service? → It provides real-time tracking of supply levels and usage patterns
2. When using the sequential (double) wrap method, the second wrap is applied: → At a 90-degree angle to the first wrap for maximum coverage
3. Which documentation is required to be maintained for each sterilization load per AAMI and IAHCSMM standards? → Load number, cycle parameters, contents, BI and CI results, and operator identification
4. Ultrasonic cleaners work by which mechanism? → Cavitation created by high-frequency sound waves
5. What is the recommended temperature and humidity range for sterile storage areas? → 20–25°C (68–77°F) and less than 70% relative humidity
6. What is the purpose of using a lint-free cloth when manually cleaning instruments? → To prevent leaving fibers that could interfere with sterilization
7. Which biological indicator (BI) organism is used to test the efficacy of steam sterilization? → Geobacillus stearothermophilus (G. stearothermophilus)
8. What is the most important thing to think about while deciding where to put sterile storage? → The safety and sterility of the environment
9. According to Spaulding Classification, flexible endoscopes used for bronchoscopy are classified as: → Semi-critical items requiring at minimum high-level disinfection
10. A sterile package is found with a small tear in the outer wrap. What is the correct action? → Consider the package non-sterile and reprocess the item
11. In a sterile storage area, what is the recommended minimum distance that sterile packages should be stored from the floor? → 8 inches
12. An anomaly in the sterilization records is found by a central service technician. How should the technician proceed initially? → Report the discrepancy to the supervisor immediately
13. What does the term 'sterility assurance level' (SAL) of 10⁻⁶ mean? → One in one million chance a viable microorganism remains on a sterilized device
14. What is the recommended frequency for biological indicator (BI) testing of steam sterilizers? → Daily for all cycles, or with every implant load
15. When should a loaner instrument set be processed before use in a surgical case? → Upon receipt, following standard decontamination and sterilization protocols
16. How far from exterior walls and ceilings should sterile packages be stored? → At least 2 inches from exterior walls; 18 inches from sprinkler heads
17. What is the primary function of sterile packaging? → To maintain sterility from the point of sterilization to the point of use
18. Historically, the idea that a package's sterility is "time-related" is now ____. → Event Related
19. A CS technician finds an instrument set with a broken seal on the outer wrap. The correct action is to: → Consider the set non-sterile and reprocess it completely
20. Agency that has the authority to step in when it comes to worker protection even in the absence of any legislation. → OSHA
21. What is the correct term for the process of reducing the number of pathogenic microorganisms to a safe level, but not necessarily achieving sterility? → Disinfection
22. What does the CHL (Certified Healthcare Leader) credential from IAHCSMM represent? → Advanced leadership and management certification for CS supervisors and managers
23. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the decontamination area? → Full barrier PPE including gloves, gown, mask, and eye protection
24. What is the primary purpose of the decontamination area in a central service department? → To receive and clean soiled instruments and equipment
25. Which type of chemical disinfectant is most appropriate for disinfecting environmental surfaces in the CS prep and pack area? → EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfectant
26. Which of the following is a key responsibility of the CS department in the distribution process? → Ensuring the right items are delivered to the right location at the right time
27. What is the primary purpose of a par-level system in CS/SPD inventory management? → To maintain a set minimum quantity of supplies at each location
28. What is the correct sequence of steps in the decontamination process? → Pre-cleaning, cleaning, rinsing, disinfection or sterilization
29. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when working in the decontamination area? → Gown, gloves, face shield or goggles, and shoe covers
30. When should instrument count sheets be updated? → Whenever instruments are added, removed, or substituted in a set