Introduction to Central Sterile Processing
What does CSP stand for?
Central Sterile Processing
What does PPE stand for?
Personal Protective Equipment
What does the term "decontamination" mean?
The process of removing or reducing contaminants, such as microorganisms, from objects.
Why should sterile packages be stored in a clean, dry area?
To prevent contamination and maintain sterility.
What does CRCST stand for?
Certified Registered Central Service Technician
What is the main role of a sterile processing technician?
To clean, sterilize, and prepare medical equipment and instruments for use.
Give an example of a piece of PPE.
Gloves, masks, gowns, face shields, goggles.
What does a disinfectant do?
A chemical that kills most pathogenic organisms.
What is the recommended shelf life for sterile items if properly packaged?
Depends on the packaging material and facility protocols (could be weeks to months).
What is a "tray" in the context of sterile processing?
A set of instruments arranged for a specific surgical procedure.
What does the term "sterile" mean?
Free from all living microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses.
What does a Washer-disinfector do?
Decontaminates items intended for re-use by an automated process of cleaning and disinfection.
Why is it important to wear PPE in the decontamination area?
To protect oneself from exposure to harmful substances and infectious agents.
What is a chemical indicator, and how is it used?
A strip that changes color to show that sterilization conditions were met.
What does the term "contaminated" mean?
Containing harmful microorganisms or substances.
What is the first step in the decontamination process?
Manual cleaning or rinsing of instruments.
What is an Autoclave?
A pressure vessel that uses steam to sterilize medical devices
How often should cleaning brushes be disinfected or replaced?
Regularly, but to the specifications of the facility's protocols (e.g., daily or after each use).
True or False. Sterilized packages may be jeopardized due to storage practices.
True
What is the temperature range typically used for steam sterilization?
Around 250°F to 270°F (121°C to 132°C).
Name one area within the sterile processing department.
Decontamination area, Assembly area, Sterilization area, or Storage area.
What is a Tabletop steam sterilizer?
They are designed for sterilizing small instruments.
They are ideal for reprocessing small trays, single instruments, and paper-plastic pouches. Example- Dental office
Put these words in the correct order. "Sterilization", "Clean" and "Disinfection"
Clean, Disinfection, and Sterilization
Why is Stock Rotation important in Sterilization Storage?
Ensures that the oldest items are used first. The longer a sterilized item remains in storage, the greater it is for to be contaminated.
What is the purpose of wrapping instruments before sterilization?
To keep them sterile until they are ready to be used.