CRCST Practice Exam

What does it mean if an item is sterile?

1. Absence of all living organisms

2. Presence of harmful bacteria

3. Highly radioactive

4. Unsuitable for medical use

The correct answer is: Absence of all living organisms

Sterile means the absence of all living organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. This is a critical quality in healthcare settings to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. Highly radioactive (option C) items would be hazardous and not suitable for medical use. Items with the presence of harmful bacteria (option B) would not be considered sterile. Items unsuitable for medical use (option D) do not necessarily mean they are sterile; they may be sterile but not appropriate for medical purposes.