Processing Technical Manual, which is the official exam reference. These tests are designed
to mimic the actual certification exam, which consists of 300+ multiple-choice questions to
be completed in 3 hours.
Key Exam Domain Descriptions
Free practice tests typically group questions into these primary domains:
Cleaning, Decontamination, and Disinfection: Focuses on removing soil from instruments at
the point of use, proper PPE requirements (like negative air pressure in decontamination
areas), and high-level vs. low-level disinfection.
Sterilization Process: Covers high-temperature methods (Steam) and low-temperature
methods (Ethylene Oxide) for heat-sensitive items. It also tests your knowledge of biological
and chemical indicators.
Preparation and Packaging: Includes inspecting instruments for damage (like cracks or
dullness) and ensuring proper tray assembly.
Sterile Storage and Transport: Tests concepts like "one-way flow" (moving items from soiled
to clean areas) and event-related sterility.
Patient Care Equipment: Knowledge of equipment like micro drills for ear surgery or
stabilizers for fractured fingers.
Professional Development: Covers regulatory standards from the FDA, CDC, EPA, and
OSHA, as well as employability skills.
Recommended Free Resources for 2025
You can find comprehensive question banks and study materials at the following sites:
1
, Quizlet CRCST 9th Edition: Offers detailed flashcards and practice quizzes based on the
latest 2025 study guides.
ProProfs Quiz School: Features user-generated practice tests with hundreds of questions
covering all IAHCSMM/HSPA domains.
YouTube Study Channels: Channels like "LearningwithMCQ" provide video-based practice
tests with 50+ questions and explained answers for visual learners.
The Sterile Guy: Provides free "Sterile Processing 101" prep and bundles that mimic the
actual exam layout.
Quiz_________________?
0.60 defects per million transactions -
ANSWER✅
The Ritz Carlton's definition of world-class quality aims for:
Quiz_________________?
1 in every 25 -
ANSWER✅
According to the CDC, how many hospitalized patients contract a hospital-acquired
infection?
Quiz_________________?
18 inches -
ANSWER✅
How far below the sprinkler heads should items be stored to allow for proper air
circulation during a fire situation?
Quiz_________________?
2
, 25 lb -
ANSWER✅
What is the recommended maximum weight for containerized trays according to ANSI and
AAMI ST77?
Quiz_________________?
30 -
ANSWER✅
According to the CDC, how many of every 100 surgical patients develop surgical site
infections (SSIs)?
Quiz_________________?
30% and 60% -
ANSWER✅
Relative humidity in the assembly area should be maintained between:
Quiz_________________?
4.5 hours -
ANSWER✅
How long is the sterilization cycle for O3 sterilization?
Quiz_________________?
400 series is used where sharp cutting edges are needed and 300 series is more workable
and malleable -
ANSWER✅
3
, What is the difference between 400 and 300 series steel?
Quiz_________________?
6-10 hours -
ANSWER✅
What is the recommended soaking time for sterilization or killing spores with
glutaraldehyde?
Quiz_________________?
60 degrees celsius or lower -
ANSWER✅
What is the optimal temperature for using enzyme-based products during the
decontamination process?
Quiz_________________?
60-65 degrees Fahrenheit (16-18 degrees Celsius) -
ANSWER✅
What should the temperature range be in the decontamination area?
Quiz_________________?
68 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit -
ANSWER✅
The correct temperature in the assembly area should be between:
4