Lec.3 Sterilization Flashcards
What is the definition of sterilization?; Sterilization is the process of eliminating all forms of microbial life
including bacteria
What is the difference between sterilization and disinfection?; Sterilization completely destroys all microorganisms
while disinfection reduces the number of pathogenic microorganisms to a level that is not harmful to health.
Why is sterilization important in medical settings?; Sterilization is crucial in medical settings to prevent infections and ensure the safety of surgical procedures by eliminating all potential pathogens.
What are common methods of sterilization?; Common methods of sterilization include autoclaving
dry heat sterilization
What role does disinfection play in infection control?; Disinfection plays a vital role in infection control by reducing the number of harmful microorganisms on surfaces and instruments
thereby minimizing the risk of infection.
What is sterilization and disinfection?; Sterilization is the process of eliminating all forms of microbial life
including bacteria
What are the methods of sterilization and disinfection?; Methods of sterilization and disinfection include physical methods like autoclaving and dry heat
chemical methods using disinfectants
How is sterilization of surgical instruments performed?; Sterilization of surgical instruments is typically performed using autoclaving
which uses steam under pressure
What is involved in the decontamination of the surgical team?; Decontamination of the surgical team involves proper hand hygiene
wearing sterile gloves and gowns
What steps are taken for the decontamination of an animal’s surgical site?; Decontamination of an animal’s surgical site includes shaving the area
cleaning with antiseptic solutions
What are pathogens?; Microorganisms that cause disease
including viruses
What is decontamination?; Decontamination is the process that involves cleaning and achieving asepsis.
What is asepsis?; Asepsis is a condition in which no living organisms are present.
What does sterilization refer to?; Sterilization is the destruction of all microorganisms (bacteria
viruses
What is the purpose of disinfection?; Disinfection is the destruction of most pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate (nonliving) objects.
What is antisepsis?; Antisepsis is the destruction of most pathogenic microorganisms on animate (living) objects.
How are antiseptics used in surgical procedures?; Antiseptics are used to kill microorganisms during patient skin preparation and surgical scrubbing; however
the skin is not sterilized.
What does cleaning involve?; Cleaning usually refers to the physical removal of surface contaminants
typically using detergents or soap and water
What is the process of using steam or dry heat to eliminate all forms of microbial life?; Sterilization
What is a common chemical agent used for sterilization that is a gas?; Ethylene oxide
What type of radiation is often used for sterilization purposes?; Gamma radiation
What is the term for the use of boiling water to kill pathogens?; Disinfection
What is a common chemical disinfectant that is 70% alcohol?; 70% Alcohol
What is the name of the chemical compound used for sterilization that is a liquid and contains glutaric aldehyde?; Glutaric Aldehyde
What is the method of sterilization that involves the use of heat and is effective in killing bacteria?; Heat sterilization
What disinfectant is known for its effectiveness and is often used in veterinary practice?; Phenol
What type of solution can be used for disinfection that includes chloramines?; Chloramines solution
What are the different ways that physical and chemical methods can destroy or inhibit microbes?; They can damage cell walls or membranes
interfere with cell enzyme activity or metabolism
What is the practical use of isopropyl alcohol in veterinary practice?; Spot cleaning and injection site preparation.
What are the properties of chlorine compounds in veterinary disinfectants?; Good disinfectant properties but fair antiseptic properties.
What mechanism of action do iodine compounds utilize?; Iodination and oxidation of essential molecules.
What precautions should be taken when using glutaraldehyde?; It has a tissue reaction odor
so instruments should be rinsed well before use.
What is the main mechanism of action for alcohol as a disinfectant?; Protein denaturation
metabolic interruption
What is a disadvantage of using chlorine compounds for cleaning?; They are inactivated by organic debris and corrosive to metal.
What is the practical use of iodine compounds in veterinary practice?; Cleaning dark-colored floors and countertops.
What are the antiseptic properties of glutaraldehyde?; It has good disinfectant properties but no antiseptic properties.
What method of sterilization uses high temperature steam under pressure?; Autoclaving is the method that uses high temperature steam under pressure for sterilization.
What ensures the saturation of wrapped surgical packs during autoclaving?; The high pressure during autoclaving ensures the saturation of wrapped surgical packs.
Why is autoclaving considered the most efficient method of sterilization?; Autoclaving is considered the most efficient and inexpensive method of sterilization for routine use.
What is the efficacy of autoclaving in terms of sterilization?; The efficacy of autoclaving is complete sterilization.
What is an autoclave and how does it function in sterilization?; An autoclave is a device that uses steam under pressure to sterilize equipment and supplies. It operates by raising the temperature of water to produce steam
which then penetrates the items being sterilized
What is dry heat sterilization?; Dry heat sterilization is a method of sterilization that uses hot air to kill microorganisms
typically at temperatures ranging from 160°C to 180°C for a specified duration.
What are the advantages of using dry heat sterilization?; Advantages of dry heat sterilization include its ability to penetrate materials without moisture
making it suitable for sterilizing oils
What is the typical temperature range for dry heat sterilization?; The typical temperature range for dry heat sterilization is between 160°C and 180°C.
How long should items be exposed to dry heat for effective sterilization?; Items should generally be exposed to dry heat for at least 1 to 2 hours
depending on the temperature and the type of materials being sterilized.
What types of materials are best suited for dry heat sterilization?; Materials that are best suited for dry heat sterilization include glassware
metal instruments
What is the primary advantage of dry-heat sterilization regarding hinged instruments and items with multiple parts?; It is not necessary to open or unlock hinged instruments or disassemble items with sliding or multiple parts
as the entire item is raised to the designated temperature.
What is the recommended sterilization temperature and time for dry heat at 170 degrees C?; 170 degrees C (340 degrees F) for 1 hour.
At what temperature and duration should items be sterilized using dry heat at 160 degrees C?; 160 degrees C (320 degrees F) for 2 hours.
What is the maximum temperature recommended for sterilizing sharp instruments and needles using dry heat?; Sharp instruments and needles should not be sterilized at temperatures higher than 160 degrees C.
What should be done after sterilizing items in a dry heat oven before removing them?; Leave items in the oven to cool before removing them using sterile pickups.
What is Ethylene oxide and how does it kill microorganisms?; Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable
explosive gas that kills microorganisms by altering their DNA through alkylation.
What types of instruments are typically sterilized using Ethylene oxide?; Ethylene oxide is used for heat sensitive instruments such as plastics
suture material
What conditions enhance the Ethylene oxide sterilization process?; The Ethylene oxide sterilization process is enhanced by heat and moisture
with an optimum temperature range of 49 °C to 60 °C and an optimum humidity level of 20% to 40%.
At what temperature and duration are most items sterilized using Ethylene oxide?; Most items are sterilized at 54.4 °C (130 °F) for approximately 2.5 hours.
What are the sterilization conditions for heat-sensitive items using Ethylene oxide?; Heat-sensitive items are sterilized at 37.8 °C (100 °F) for approximately 5 hours.
How long do sterilized items need aeration in a well-ventilated area?; Sterilized items need aeration for a minimum of 7 days
or 12 to 18 hours in an aerator.
What are the potential health effects of chronic exposure to Ethylene Oxide (EtO) in humans?; Chronic exposure to EtO can cause irritation of the eyes
skin
What is the primary method of sterilization used for prepackaged equipment from manufacturers?; Ionizing radiation
specifically cobalt 60
Why is the use of ionizing radiation for sterilization restricted to commercial use?; The use of ionizing radiation for sterilization is restricted to commercial use because of its expense.
What types of items commonly used in the operating room are sterilized with ionizing radiation?; Items commonly sterilized with ionizing radiation include suture material
sponges
What is glutaraldehyde and what is its primary use in sterilization?; Glutaraldehyde is a saturated dialdehyde that is widely accepted as a high level disinfectant and chemical sterilant
particularly for delicate lensed instruments.
Why is glutaraldehyde considered noncorrosive?; Glutaraldehyde is noncorrosive to metals
rubbers
What types of instruments can be sterilized using 2% glutaraldehyde?; Delicate lensed instruments such as endoscopes
cystoscopes
What conditions must items meet before immersion in glutaraldehyde for sterilization?; Items must be clean and dry before immersion in glutaraldehyde
as organic matter can prevent proper sterilization.
What effect does residual water have on the effectiveness of glutaraldehyde?; Residual water can cause chemical dilution
which may reduce the effectiveness of glutaraldehyde as a sterilant.
What is the immersion time required for sterilization using 2% glutaraldehyde?; 10 hours at 20 ° - 25 ° C for sterilization.
What is the immersion time required for disinfection using 2% glutaraldehyde?; 10 minutes at 20 ° - 25 ° C for disinfection.
What should be done after the appropriate immersion period of instruments in glutaraldehyde?; Instruments should be rinsed thoroughly with sterile water and dried with sterile towels.
What major health risk is associated with glutaraldehyde?; It is a known respiratory and dermal irritant and sensitizer
which can cause adverse health effects in exposed workers.
What serious conditions can result from failing to rinse disinfected equipment thoroughly after using glutaraldehyde?; Chemical colitis
pancreatitis
What is the importance of bathing dirty animals prior to surgical preparation?; Bathing dirty animals helps to reduce the risk of infection and ensures a cleaner surgical environment.
What should be done when clipping the area around the surgical site?; A broad area should be clipped while being careful not to cut the skin.
What is the recommended method for scrubbing an area with surgical soap?; Start at the center of the site and work outward in larger and larger circles for five minutes
using a new piece of gauze each time you return to the center.
What is the procedure for wiping the surgical site with sterile gauze sponge?; Wipe the area with sterile gauze sponge
starting at the center of the site
What is the purpose of placing four sterile surgical drapes around the incision site?; The purpose is to create a sterile field and minimize the risk of infection during surgery.
Who is allowed to touch the incision site during surgery?; Only people wearing sterile surgical gloves should touch the site.
What is the function of draping in surgery?; The function of draping is to separate the sterile surgical site from contaminated areas of the patient.
What is the first step in surgical personnel preparation?; Wearing a mask and cap.
How is scrubbing done during surgical personnel preparation?; Scrubbing is done with a surgical hand brush and soap.
What is the procedure for applying soap to hands and arms during scrubbing?; Apply soap to hands and arms
lathering without a brush.
What is the correct way to rinse hands after scrubbing?; Elevate hands above the level of elbows
so that rinse water runs off the elbows
How should soap be reapplied during the scrubbing process?; Reapply soap and scrub hands and arms with a brush.
What is the recommended scrubbing technique for hands to elbows?; Scrub from hands to elbows so the cleanest area is the hands.
How many strokes should be done on each finger during scrubbing?; Each finger should receive more than 10 strokes on each surface
totaling 40 strokes per finger.
How many strokes should be applied to fingernails and both surfaces of hands?; 20 strokes each for fingernails and both surfaces of hands.
How many strokes should be applied to each arm’s surface during scrubbing?; 10 strokes for each arm’s surface.
What is the procedure for rinsing after scrubbing?; Rinse in warm water
allowing the water to drip from the elbows.
How many times should the entire scrubbing procedure be repeated?; The entire scrubbing procedure should be repeated twice.
What is the primary goal of surgical personnel preparation?; The primary goal of surgical personnel preparation is to minimize the risk of infection and ensure a sterile environment during surgical procedures.
What are the key steps involved in preparing surgical personnel?; Key steps include proper hand hygiene
wearing appropriate surgical attire
Why is hand hygiene critical in surgical personnel preparation?; Hand hygiene is critical because it reduces the transmission of pathogens and helps maintain a sterile field during surgery.
What type of attire is recommended for surgical personnel?; Surgical personnel should wear sterile gowns
caps
How does the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) contribute to surgical safety?; PPE protects surgical personnel from exposure to infectious materials and helps maintain a sterile environment
reducing the risk of surgical site infections.
What is the first step in the drying process during gowning and gloving?; Pick up a sterile towel by one end using one hand and dry fingers and hand of the opposite arm
then dry the arm to the elbow.
What should be done with the towel after it has been used on the arms?; Once the towel is used on arms
it should not be used on hands or fingers.
Who opens the gown pack outer wrapping?; The unscrubbed assistant opens the gown pack outer wrapping.
How does the scrubbed surgeon don the gown?; The scrubbed surgeon grasps the folded gown at the shoulder and places the left arm into the sleeve
then the right arm into the sleeve.
What is the role of the assistant during the gowning process?; The assistant grasps the inside of the gown and pulls the sleeves into place
then pulls down to straighten the front and ties the neck and waist.
What is the procedure for opening the glove pack?; The assistant opens the glove pack.
What should be avoided during the gowning and gloving procedures?; Bare fingers should never touch any part of the gown or any part of the outside of gloves.
What is the purpose of gowning in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gowning in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment by preventing contamination from the surgical team to the patient and vice versa.
What are the steps involved in proper gowning technique?; The steps involved in proper gowning technique include washing hands
donning a sterile gown
Why is it important to wear a gown during surgery?; Wearing a gown during surgery is important to protect the surgical site from potential contaminants and to uphold the principles of asepsis.
What materials are commonly used for surgical gowns?; Surgical gowns are commonly made from materials such as cotton
polyester
How does gowning contribute to infection control in surgery?; Gowning contributes to infection control in surgery by creating a barrier that minimizes the risk of microbial transmission from the surgical team to the patient.
What is the purpose of gowning in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gowning in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment by preventing the transfer of microorganisms from the surgical personnel to the patient and the sterile field.
What are the key steps involved in the gowning process for surgical personnel?; The key steps involved in the gowning process include hand hygiene
donning a sterile gown
Why is it important to follow proper gowning procedures in surgery?; Following proper gowning procedures is important to minimize the risk of surgical site infections and to protect both the patient and the surgical team from contamination.
What materials are typically used for surgical gowns?; Surgical gowns are typically made from materials that are fluid-resistant and provide a barrier to microorganisms
such as non-woven fabrics or treated cotton.
How does gowning contribute to asepsis in the operating room?; Gowning contributes to asepsis in the operating room by creating a barrier that helps prevent the introduction of pathogens into the sterile field during surgical procedures.
What is the purpose of gowning in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gowning in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment and protect both the surgical team and the patient from potential contamination.
What are the steps involved in the gowning process for surgical personnel?; The steps involved in the gowning process include hand hygiene
donning a sterile gown
Why is it important to ensure that the gown is sterile before use?; It is important to ensure that the gown is sterile before use to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the surgical site
which can lead to infections and complications.
What materials are commonly used for surgical gowns?; Surgical gowns are commonly made from materials such as cotton
polyester
How does proper gowning contribute to maintaining a sterile field during surgery?; Proper gowning contributes to maintaining a sterile field by providing a barrier against contaminants
thereby reducing the risk of infection during surgical procedures.
What is the purpose of gowning in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gowning in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment by preventing contamination from the surgical team to the patient and vice versa.
What are the steps involved in the gowning process for surgical personnel?; The steps involved in the gowning process include washing hands
donning a sterile gown
Why is it important to ensure that the gown is sterile before use?; It is important to ensure that the gown is sterile before use to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens into the surgical site
which can lead to infections and complications.
What materials are commonly used for surgical gowns?; Surgical gowns are commonly made from materials such as cotton
polyester
How does proper gowning contribute to maintaining a sterile field during surgery?; Proper gowning contributes to maintaining a sterile field during surgery by providing a barrier that prevents the transfer of microorganisms from the surgical team to the sterile environment.
What is the purpose of gloving in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gloving in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment
protect both the patient and surgical personnel from infection
What are the types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures?; The types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures include sterile surgical gloves
non-sterile examination gloves
How should gloves be properly donned before a surgical procedure?; Gloves should be properly donned by first performing hand hygiene
then opening the glove package without touching the inside
What is the significance of changing gloves during a surgical procedure?; Changing gloves during a surgical procedure is significant to prevent cross-contamination
reduce the risk of infection
What are the potential consequences of improper gloving techniques in surgery?; The potential consequences of improper gloving techniques in surgery include increased risk of surgical site infections
contamination of sterile instruments
What is the purpose of gloving in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gloving in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment
protect both the patient and surgical personnel from infection
What are the types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures?; The types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures include sterile surgical gloves
non-sterile examination gloves
What is the correct technique for donning sterile gloves?; The correct technique for donning sterile gloves involves washing hands thoroughly
opening the glove package without touching the inside
Why is it important to change gloves during a surgical procedure?; It is important to change gloves during a surgical procedure to prevent cross-contamination
reduce the risk of infection
What should be done if a glove is punctured during surgery?; If a glove is punctured during surgery
the surgical team should immediately change the glove to maintain sterility and prevent infection.
What is the purpose of gloving in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gloving in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment
protect both the patient and surgical personnel from infection
What are the two main types of gloves used in surgical procedures?; The two main types of gloves used in surgical procedures are sterile gloves and non-sterile gloves.
How should gloves be properly donned to ensure sterility?; Gloves should be properly donned by first performing hand hygiene
then using the correct technique to put on the gloves without touching the outside surface
What is the significance of changing gloves during a surgical procedure?; Changing gloves during a surgical procedure is significant to prevent cross-contamination
reduce the risk of infection
What is the purpose of gloving in a surgical setting?; The purpose of gloving in a surgical setting is to maintain a sterile environment
protect both the surgical personnel and the patient from infection
What are the types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures?; The types of gloves commonly used in surgical procedures include sterile surgical gloves
non-sterile examination gloves
