Ultimate IAHCSMM Flashcards

What is the proper sequence for manual cleaning of surgical instruments?

Answer: Disassemble, pre-rinse/soak, scrub with detergent in low-lint brush, rinse, dry

Manual cleaning begins with disassembly, pre-rinsing or soaking to loosen soil, scrubbing with a low-lint brush and appropriate detergent, thorough rinsing, and drying.

Which of the following best describes 'immediate-use steam sterilization' (IUSS), formerly called flash sterilization?

Answer: An emergency procedure for processing items needed for an immediate patient procedure when no alternative exists

IUSS is reserved for situations where there is no suitable alternative when an item is needed immediately for a patient, and items should not be routinely flash-sterilized as a convenience.

Instruments with box locks and hinges should be sterilized in which position to ensure steam contact on all surfaces?

Answer: Partially open (ratchet in the first ratchet position)

Ring-handled instruments with box locks must be sterilized in the open (or first ratchet) position to allow steam to contact all surfaces, including the interior of the box lock.

What is the role of ANSI/AAMI ST79 in central service practice?

Answer: It provides comprehensive guidance recommendations for steam sterilization and sterility assurance in healthcare facilities

ANSI/AAMI ST79 is the leading consensus document providing guidance on steam sterilization practices, monitoring, and sterility assurance for healthcare facilities.

Which condition would cause a steam sterilizer to fail to achieve proper sterilization even when temperature and time parameters appear correct?

Answer: Air pockets or non-condensable gases trapped in the chamber preventing steam contact

Air pockets and non-condensable gases act as insulators that block steam from reaching item surfaces, preventing the required temperature from being achieved even when the chamber thermometer reads correctly.

What is the correct action when a biological indicator (BI) returns a positive result after a sterilization cycle?

Answer: Immediately quarantine all items from that load, notify the supervisor, and investigate the failure

A positive BI is treated as a confirmed sterilization failure: all items from the affected load must be quarantined and recalled if distributed, and a full investigation must be conducted before resuming sterilizer use.

Which statement about washer-disinfector (WD) maintenance is correct per IAHCSMM standards?

Answer: WD performance should be verified daily and the unit maintained per manufacturer's instructions

Washer-disinfectors require daily performance verification and routine maintenance per the manufacturer's instructions to ensure consistent cleaning efficacy.