Infection Control · single question
OSHA regulates biological monitoring (spore testing) of sterilizers. What frequency is REQUIRED?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Weekly — OSHA requires weekly spore testing (NOT monthly)
✓ B) WEEKLY spore testing — monthly is INSUFFICIENT.
OSHA and CDC require spore tests (biological indicators using Geobacillus stearothermophilus for steam/moist heat) at MINIMUM WEEKLY for all sterilizers. Also required: with every load containing implantable devices, after sterilizer repair, when new sterilizers are installed, and when sterilization protocols change. Monthly is NOT acceptable. Spore tests confirm that the sterilizer is actually achieving sterilization conditions. If a spore test fails: quarantine all items processed since last passed test, investigate, re-test, notify patients if implants were involved.
OSHA and CDC require spore tests (biological indicators using Geobacillus stearothermophilus for steam/moist heat) at MINIMUM WEEKLY for all sterilizers. Also required: with every load containing implantable devices, after sterilizer repair, when new sterilizers are installed, and when sterilization protocols change. Monthly is NOT acceptable. Spore tests confirm that the sterilizer is actually achieving sterilization conditions. If a spore test fails: quarantine all items processed since last passed test, investigate, re-test, notify patients if implants were involved.
Practice Infection Control questions Infection Control study notes