Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

How far should shelves be from walls to avoid contamination?

1. 2 inches

2. 4 inches

3. 6 inches

4. 8 inches

The correct answer is: 2 inches

Maintaining proper distances between shelves and walls is crucial for preventing contamination in medical device reprocessing areas. A distance of 2 inches is recommended as it allows adequate airflow, facilitates cleaning, and reduces the risk of contamination by minimizing the accumulation of dust, debris, or moisture along the walls. This clearance ensures that surfaces can be easily accessed for cleaning and inspection, further enhancing the overall hygiene of the area. With a spacing of 2 inches, staff can effectively utilize cleaning tools and techniques to maintain a sterile environment. This distance strikes a balance between maximizing storage capacity and adhering to infection control protocols, contributing to the safe reprocessing of medical devices. While larger distances may offer more airflow and easier access, the 2-inch requirement is often considered sufficient to mitigate contamination risks while maintaining practical usability in a clinical setting.