Ultrasonic cleaner
Sterile processing definition
An ultrasonic cleaner removes fine soil from instruments by cavitation: high-frequency sound waves create tiny bubbles in the cleaning solution that implode and dislodge debris from hard-to-reach areas like serrations and box locks. Instruments should be cleaned of gross soil first, fully submerged and opened, and the unit should be degassed and tested according to its instructions.
On the CRCST exam
Know that ultrasonic cleaning works by cavitation and is a fine-cleaning step, not a substitute for removing gross soil or for disinfection.
Exam domain: Cleaning, Decontamination & Disinfection (about 21% of the exam)
Cleaning, Decontamination & Disinfection practice questions
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