DecontaminationQuestion 8 of 100
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?
a.Thermal disinfection at the final rinse temperature
b.Chemical oxidation of protein by the detergent
c.High-velocity water jets directed at instrument surfaces
d.Cavitation, in which microscopic bubbles form and implode against instrument surfaces
Explanation
High-frequency sound waves create low-pressure zones where tiny bubbles form and then collapse, and the energy released by that implosion dislodges fine soil from crevices, box locks, and serrations. Thermal disinfection and spray-jet impingement are mechanisms of washer-disinfectors, not ultrasonic units. Detergent assists cavitation but is not itself the cleaning action.
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Related questions on this topic
- A facility engineer asks what temperature range the decontamination area should be maintained within. What is the correct answer?
- During a survey, an inspector reviews the department's daily environmental logs and asks what relative humidity range must be maintained in the work areas. What is correct?
- A technician is about to begin manual cleaning at an open sink where splashing is expected. Which personal protective equipment combination is required?
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- 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 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)?
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