SPD - Sterile Processing Department Technician Quality Assurance and Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

A Class 5 chemical integrating indicator is used to monitor a steam sterilization cycle.
After the cycle, the technician observes that the indicator has not reached the 'accept' window.
What does this result signify?

Accepted Answer

One or more critical parameters of the steam sterilization cycle were not met.

Answer

The sterilizer is functioning correctly, but the pack was too dense.

Answer

The chemical indicator is expired and gave a false reading.

Answer

The cycle was successful, as some color change is always acceptable.

Question 2

An SPD technician receives a loaner instrument tray from a vendor for a scheduled surgery. Which of the following is the MOST critical initial step for the technician to take to ensure patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Verify that the vendor has provided the manufacturer's Instructions for Use (IFU) for decontamination and sterilization.

Answer

Immediately sterilize the tray to ensure it is ready for the procedure.

Answer

Assume the instruments are clean and proceed directly to assembly and packaging.

Answer

Weigh the tray to ensure it does not exceed the 25-pound limit.

Question 3

According to AAMI ST79, what is the recommended minimum frequency for performing a biological indicator (BI) process challenge device (PCD) test on a steam sterilizer?

Accepted Answer

At least weekly, but preferably daily, and in every implant load.

Answer

Monthly and in every implant load.

Answer

Only when a new type of instrument is introduced.

Answer

Once per day, regardless of the load contents.

Question 4

A positive biological indicator (BI) result occurs after a steam sterilization cycle. The technician has quarantined the load. What is the immediate next step in the recall procedure?

Accepted Answer

Identify and recall all items processed in that sterilizer back to the last known negative BI.

Answer

Notify the operating room to retrieve any potentially affected items that were released.

Answer

Assume the BI was faulty and re-run the same load without changes.

Answer

Take the sterilizer out of service and wait for the biomedical engineer.

Question 5

Which of the following workplace safety practices is mandated by OSHA's Bloodborne Pathogens Standard for the decontamination area of the SPD?

Accepted Answer

Providing and ensuring the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Answer

Requiring all technicians to have at least five years of experience.

Answer

Using only automated washer-disinfectors for all instruments.

Answer

Maintaining a room temperature below 60°F (15°C) to inhibit microbial growth.

Question 6

A key component of a quality management system in the Sterile Processing Department is documentation. Which of the following records is MOST critical for traceability and quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

Sterilization load records with physical, chemical, and biological indicator results.

Answer

The daily work schedule of the technicians.

Answer

A log of all staff birthdays and anniversaries.

Answer

The purchase orders for new sterilization wrap.

A Class 5 chemical integrating indicator is used to monitor a steam sterilization cycle.After the cycle, the technician observes that the indicator has not reached the 'accept' window.What does this result signify?

A Class 5 chemical integrating indicator is used to monitor a steam sterilization cycle.
After the cycle, the technician observes that the indicator has not reached the 'accept' window.
What does this result signify?