Module 3 - Week 3 Flashcards
(24 cards)
What is the difference between medical asepsis and surgical asepsis?
Medical asepsis reduces microorganisms, while surgical asepsis eliminates all microorganisms and spores.
Where is surgical asepsis commonly used?
Operating rooms, interventional suites, and medical imaging departments.
What are the three primary sources of contamination?
Environment, personnel, and equipment.
Name three ways to minimize environmental contamination.
Restrict traffic, isolate patients, and wear low-particle clothing.
What are the three main sterilization methods?
Steam under pressure, chemical sterilization, and ethylene oxide sterilization.
What is the purpose of an autoclave?
To sterilize instruments using steam under pressure.
Why is ethylene oxide used for sterilization?
It is suitable for moisture- and heat-sensitive items.
What must be done before ethylene oxide sterilization?
Items must be completely dry to prevent toxic byproducts.
What type of items require high-level disinfection?
Critical items like surgical instruments and implants.
Give an example of an intermediate-risk (semi-critical) item.
Endotracheal tubes or respiratory equipment.
What is a non-critical item that requires low-level disinfection?
Stethoscopes.
What is the rule for turning your back on a sterile field?
Never turn your back on a sterile field—it may become contaminated.
How should sterile trays be opened?
Open them away from yourself.
What part of a sterile field is considered contaminated?
The outer one-inch edge.
Why should you avoid talking over a sterile field?
To prevent contamination from airborne particles.
What is the technologist’s role in pharmaceutical administration?
Drawing up medications for procedures involving a Radiologist.
How should pharmaceuticals be handled to maintain sterility?
Use aseptic technique and avoid touching sterile parts of vials and ampules.
What should you never do with a used needle?
Never recap it.
What is the only safe way to recap an unused needle?
Use the one-handed scoop technique.
Who is responsible for disposing of a used sharp?
The person who used it.
When should sharps containers be replaced?
When they are ¾ full.
What should you do immediately after a needle stick injury in class?
Inform an instructor immediately.
Who should be informed about a needle stick injury during clinical practice?
The attending Radiologist, Technologist, and Clinical Instructor.
Where do you report a needle stick injury at BCIT?
BCIT First Aid (NE16 Room 121).
