SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Packaging for Sterilization Questions and Answers

Question 1

An SPD technician is preparing a lightweight, low-profile instrument for steam sterilization. Which of the following packaging materials is most appropriate for this item?

Accepted Answer

Paper-plastic pouch

Answer

Woven textile wrap

Answer

Rigid sterilization container

Answer

Polypropylene wrap

Question 2

When preparing an instrument tray for steam sterilization, what is the maximum recommended weight for the set, including the container?

Accepted Answer

25 lbs

Answer

15 lbs

Answer

20 lbs

Answer

30 lbs

Question 3

A sterile processing technician notices a small tear in the outer layer of a wrapped instrument set just before it is scheduled to be sent to the operating room. What is the appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Return the entire set to the decontamination area for complete reprocessing and repackaging.

Answer

Tape the tear securely with sterilization indicator tape.

Answer

Send the set to the OR but inform the staff about the tear.

Answer

Disregard the tear as long as the inner wrap is intact.

Question 4

Which of the following is a critical requirement for any packaging material used for terminal sterilization?

Accepted Answer

It must allow for penetration of the chosen sterilant and maintain sterility post-sterilization.

Answer

It must be impermeable to all gases and liquids.

Answer

It must be compatible with all forms of sterilization.

Answer

It must be reusable for a minimum of 50 cycles.

Question 5

When using non-woven, single-use sterilization wrappers, what is the primary material they are typically made from?

Accepted Answer

Polypropylene

Answer

140-thread count cotton muslin

Answer

Linen and polyester blend

Answer

Tyvek

Question 6

An SPD technician is double-pouching an instrument for aseptic presentation in the operating room. According to best practices, how should this be performed?

Accepted Answer

Place the inner pouch with the paper side facing the paper side of the outer pouch.

Answer

Fold the inner pouch before placing it inside the outer pouch.

Answer

Place the inner pouch facing the plastic side of the outer pouch.

Answer

Use two different sizes of pouches, placing the smaller one inside the larger one.