Infection Control · single question
Regarding biological spore testing for sterilization monitoring, which of the following is NOT correct?
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Correct answer: D. Monthly spore testing is sufficient for full compliance
CDC and ADA guidelines recommend biological spore testing at a minimum of once per week — not once per month. Monthly testing does not meet the minimum frequency standard. Tests should also be run whenever a new packaging type is introduced, after repairs, and with the first cycle of a new sterilizer. Monthly testing is insufficient for compliance.
- A. A positive spore test is a critical failure — the sterilizer should immediately be taken out of service, instruments retrieved and re-sterilized if possible, and the unit repaired and re-tested.
- B. Running a spore test with new packaging types is a correct practice — new materials may affect sterilization efficacy.
- C. Weekly spore testing is the minimum recommended frequency per CDC guidelines — this statement IS correct.
- D. CORRECT (the INCORRECT statement). Monthly spore testing is NOT sufficient. CDC/ADA guidelines require at least weekly biological monitoring. Monthly is inadequate for compliance.
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