Introduction

Question 1

What are the 3 classifications in Spaulding’s classification

Answer 1

• Critical
• Semi-critical
• Non-critical

Question 2

What is critical

spaulding’s classification

Answer 2

devices that enter tissue that is usually sterile or enters the vascular system

Must be sterile

Question 3

What is semi-critical

spaulding’s classification

Answer 3

Instruments have contact with intact mucous membranes but does not penetrate sterile tissue.

Sterile is preferrable but high level disinfectant is also possible

Question 4

What is non-critical

Answer 4

Instruments have contact with intact skin only

Disinfect/clean

Question 5

What is the definition of sterile

Answer 5

for a device to be designated ‘sterile’, the theoretical probability of there being a viable microorganism present on/in the device shall be equal to/less than 1x10-6

Question 6

What is the operator defined as

Answer 6

any person with the authority to operate a sterilizer/washer disinfector including the noting of device readings and simple housekeeping duties

Question 7

What is the user defined as

Answer 7

as the person who is designated by management to be responsible for the sterilizer/washer disinfector. The responsibilities of the user are as follows

Question 8

What are the responsibilities of the user

Answer 8

o Certify the WD is fit for use
o Hold all documentation relating to the WD
o Ensure that the WD is subject to periodic testing and maintenance
o To appoint operators where required and ensure that they are adequately trained
o To maintain production records

Question 9

What are guidance documents

Answer 9

direct us to the BS EN standards that we should be operating our equipment in accordance with and they are referred to as SHTM’s (Scottish health technical memorandum)

Question 10

What is a standard operating procedure

Answer 10

the way we standardise our activity to make it reproducible and consistent so all staff can easily identify the correct process and follow it