MDRAO - Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario Decontamination and Cleaning Processes Questions and Answers

Question 1

An MDRD technician is manually cleaning a set of delicate, lumened instruments. Which of the following is the MOST critical first step to ensure effective decontamination?

Accepted Answer

Flushing and brushing the lumens with a neutral pH enzymatic cleaner below the water surface.

Answer

Soaking the instruments in hot water with a high-alkaline detergent.

Answer

Scrubbing the lumens vigorously with a metal wire brush.

Answer

Wiping the exterior with a disinfectant before any cleaning.

Question 2

The process of 'cavitation' is essential for the efficacy of which piece of decontamination equipment?

Accepted Answer

Ultrasonic Cleaner

Answer

Cart Washer

Answer

Steam Sterilizer

Answer

Washer-Disinfector

Question 3

A washer-disinfector has completed a cycle for a load of general surgical instruments. Which of the following phases is primarily responsible for rendering the instruments safe to handle by reducing the number of microorganisms?

Accepted Answer

Thermal Disinfection

Answer

Pre-Rinse

Answer

Detergent Wash

Answer

Final Rinse

Question 4

According to Canadian Standards Association (CSA) guidelines, what is the fundamental principle for the physical layout and workflow of a Medical Device Reprocessing Department?

Accepted Answer

A one-way flow from the dirty (decontamination) to clean/sterile areas.

Answer

Separating sterile storage from the clean assembly area.

Answer

Ensuring positive air pressure in the decontamination area.

Answer

A one-way flow from clean to dirty areas to maximize efficiency.

Question 5

A new complex orthopedic instrument set arrives in the decontamination area. What is the most important resource the technician must consult before beginning the cleaning process?

Accepted Answer

The instrument manufacturer's Instructions for Use (IFU).

Answer

The hospital's general cleaning policy.

Answer

A senior technician's personal preference.

Answer

The operating room nurse's verbal instructions.

Question 6

When manually cleaning instruments, why is it recommended to use a detergent with a neutral pH?

Accepted Answer

It prevents damage and corrosion to delicate instruments.

Answer

It is less expensive than other detergent types.

Answer

It is most effective at removing inorganic soils and minerals.

Answer

It automatically disinfects the instruments during the wash phase.

An MDRD technician is manually cleaning a set of delicate, lumened instruments.Which of the following is the MOST critical first step to ensure effective decontamination?

An MDRD technician is manually cleaning a set of delicate, lumened instruments.
Which of the following is the MOST critical first step to ensure effective decontamination?