Medical Office Assistant · Clinical Office Practice and Patient Safety

Cleaning and Decontamination

On this page 3 sections
  1. Quick check
  2. Study tools
  3. Sources & references

Quick check

5 questions here, of 85 in this lesson’s practice set. Answers stay hidden until you check.

Question 1 of 5foundational

In instrument processing, what does decontamination accomplish?

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Question 2 of 5foundational

Why must visible soil and organic material be removed from an instrument before it is sterilized?

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Question 3 of 5foundational

The term 'bioburden' refers to:

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Question 4 of 5foundational

What is the purpose of point-of-use pre-cleaning of a soiled instrument?

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Question 5 of 5foundational

Why should soiled instruments be kept moist if cleaning will be delayed?

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Study tools & related lessonsYou’ll learn to · Related

You’ll learn to

  • Clean and decontaminate reusable instruments before sterilization, following manufacturer instructions and facility policy.
  • Handle and transport contaminated instruments safely to prevent sharps injuries and cross-contamination.
  • Select, don, use, and remove personal protective equipment correctly during instrument cleaning and decontamination.
  • Recognize and escalate safety concerns, equipment problems, and exposures in instrument processing.

Sources & references

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — Infection Control
  2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration — Bloodborne Pathogens
  3. U.S. National Library of Medicine — MedlinePlus

This lesson was adapted from the open educational references above; their licenses and attributions are preserved. See Copyright & Licensing.

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