Sterilization and Infection Control in Healthcare Settings Quiz

Chemical sterilization is a method of infection control, using chemicals to kill microorganisms.

Washing hands for at least 20 seconds ensures thorough removal of germs.

Hydrogen peroxide is used as a chemical sterilant due to its effectiveness in killing microorganisms.

PPE acts as a barrier to prevent direct contact with infectious agents, protecting both patients and healthcare workers.

Monitoring ensures that sterilization processes are functioning correctly to prevent the risk of infection.

Detergent cleaning removes dirt and organic material, while disinfectant kills microorganisms on surfaces.

The CDC sets guidelines to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and ensure patient safety.

UV radiation effectively kills microorganisms, preventing contamination.

Autoclaves use heat and pressure to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and spores.

Disinfecting equipment kills or removes microorganisms to prevent infection transmission.

HEPA filters capture and remove airborne particles, including pathogens, from the air.

Terminal cleaning ensures thorough cleaning and disinfection of surfaces to prevent cross-contamination between patients.

Dry heat at this temperature and duration effectively sterilizes equipment without moisture.

Cleaning instruments before sterilization removes organic material, allowing for effective sterilization.

Semi-critical devices come into contact with mucous membranes but not sterile tissues, like ultrasound probes.

Barrier precautions create physical barriers to prevent direct contact with infectious agents, reducing transmission risk.

Preventing cross-contamination ensures that infectious agents are not transferred between patients and healthcare workers.

Contact precautions involve using barriers like gowns and gloves to prevent direct contact with infectious agents.

Surveillance programs track infections to identify trends, prevent outbreaks, and improve patient safety.

Bacterial spores have tough outer coats that make them highly resistant to sterilization.

An ideal disinfectant should be fast-acting, effectively killing microorganisms on contact.

EtO gas can penetrate various materials, making it suitable for sterilizing a wide range of medical devices.

Biological indicators contain a known number of viable microorganisms used to assess sterilization effectiveness.

BSCs protect laboratory workers and prevent contamination by providing a contained, sterile workspace.

While disinfection reduces microbial load, sterilization eliminates all forms of microbial life, including spores.