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Dental Assistant Daily Question

Past questions

Try each one first, then tap to see the answer and the explanation.

Question 1 · Infection Control

A chemical indicator inside a package shows no color change after a cycle. What should be done?

  • A. Use the instruments because the cycle finished
  • B. Do not use the instruments; reprocess them and check the sterilizer
  • C. Use the instruments only for a low-risk patient, then report the result
  • D. Change the indicator and use the instruments
Show the answer
B. Do not use the instruments; reprocess them and check the sterilizer

An unchanged internal indicator means conditions may not have been met inside the package, so the items are reprocessed and the cause investigated.

Question 2 · Infection Control

Which step comes after instruments are cleaned and dried and before they are sterilized?

  • A. Storing them in operatory drawers
  • B. Placing them in a holding solution
  • C. Inspecting the spore test results
  • D. Packaging them for the sterilizer
Show the answer
D. Packaging them for the sterilizer

Packaging protects instruments after sterilization until use.

Question 3 · Infection Control

How should a wax bite rim returned from the dental laboratory be handled before it goes in the patient's mouth?

  • A. Place it in the mouth as received from the laboratory
  • B. Rinse it only with hot water and dry it before seating
  • C. Disinfect it as the material and manufacturer direct
  • D. Heat sterilize it in the autoclave before seating
Show the answer
C. Disinfect it as the material and manufacturer direct

Lab items are disinfected before use because they may be contaminated in the lab or in transit.

Question 4 · Infection Control

What is the purpose of flushing dental unit waterlines at the start of the day?

  • A. To lubricate the handpieces before the first patient
  • B. To help reduce microorganisms that built up overnight
  • C. To bring the water to a comfortable temperature
  • D. To sterilize the lines for the rest of the day
Show the answer
B. To help reduce microorganisms that built up overnight

Flushing at the start of the day helps reduce microorganisms but does not sterilize the lines.

Question 5 · Radiation Health and Safety

How are phosphor storage plates protected from contamination while in the patient's mouth?

  • A. With a coat of petroleum jelly
  • B. By heat sterilizing each plate before every use
  • C. With sealed barrier envelopes
  • D. By soaking the plates in mouthwash before placement
Show the answer
C. With sealed barrier envelopes

Barrier envelopes protect the plate from saliva and are removed aseptically before scanning.

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