Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

What is the first step in processing reusable medical equipment?

1. Disinfecting

2. Sterilizing

3. Cleaning

4. Inspecting

The correct answer is: Cleaning

The first step in processing reusable medical equipment is cleaning. Cleaning removes dirt, debris, and organic material from the surfaces of the equipment, which is essential before any disinfection or sterilization occurs. This step is crucial because the presence of soil can hinder the effectiveness of these subsequent processes. Proper cleaning ensures that the surfaces are accessible for disinfectants and sterilants to work effectively. After cleaning, the equipment can then proceed to disinfection, which aims to reduce the number of microorganisms to a safer level, or sterilization, which aims to eliminate all forms of microbial life. Inspecting the equipment can also be important but typically occurs after cleaning to assess its condition and ensure that there are no damages or parts that need replacement before moving on to the next processing steps. Therefore, understanding the sequence of these processes highlights the importance of cleaning as the foundational step in the safe reprocessing of medical equipment.