Tool and Equipment Use, Maintenance, and Sterilization
This domain tests how to choose, clean, disinfect, sterilize, and maintain implements and equipment. Expect questions on autoclaves, ultrasonic cleaners, UV cabinets, and sharpening.
Core rules
- Classify items: reusable metal implements, porous single-use materials, and equipment such as autoclaves and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Clean visible debris before disinfection or sterilization. Use an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant at the labeled contact time for nonporous implements.
- Sterilize heat-stable implements by autoclave using proper packaging and load placement. Monitor with biological spore tests, commonly Geobacillus stearothermophilus.
- Ultrasonic cleaners remove debris; they are not sterilizers. UV cabinets are storage devices unless they carry an EPA-registered disinfectant claim.
- Maintain equipment: sharpen nippers, replace worn bits, inspect cords, and follow manufacturer instructions. Keep SDS available.
Worked example
Nippers are used on a client with suspected nail fungus. Reasoning: fungal contamination requires a fungicidal claim or sterilization. Clean the nippers, then autoclave if heat-stable; otherwise use an EPA-registered hospital disinfectant with a fungicidal claim for the full contact time. Do not simply spray and wipe.
Traps
Calling disinfectant a sterilant, skipping cleaning before disinfection, relying on UV cabinets, and using dull or damaged tools are common errors.