DecontaminationQuestion 10 of 100
A technician loads a mixed basket of stainless steel clamps, chrome-plated retractors, and aluminum instruments into the ultrasonic cleaner. What is the problem with this load?
a.The basket exceeds the maximum weight rating of the transducer
b.Mixing dissimilar metals in the same ultrasonic bath can cause electrolytic corrosion and plating transfer
c.Aluminum instruments cannot be cleaned by any mechanical method
d.Chrome-plated instruments must be processed in the ultrasonic twice
Explanation
When different metals sit in the same conductive bath, ions migrate between them and produce staining, etching, and plating deposits, so instruments should be sorted by metal type. Aluminum can be mechanically cleaned when a compatible neutral or low-alkaline detergent is used. Weight rating and double processing are not the concerns raised by a mixed-metal load.
Law Reference: AAMI ST79Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- A technician is about to begin manual cleaning at an open sink where splashing is expected. Which personal protective equipment combination is required?
- A technician is orienting a student at the ultrasonic cleaner and is asked what actually removes the soil from the instruments. What is the correct answer?
- An ultrasonic cleaner has just been filled with fresh solution at the start of the shift. Why must the unit be degassed before instruments are processed?
- A technician fills the wash sink with very hot water to speed up cleaning. Why must manual cleaning water stay below approximately 140 degrees F (60 degrees C)?
- Most instrument manufacturers specify a neutral pH detergent for routine cleaning. What pH range is considered neutral?
- A washer-disinfector is being validated and the question arises about which water quality is required for the final rinse. What is correct?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against HSPA Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) Exam · How we review