Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

How should laryngeal masks be properly cleaned?

1. Flushed with water

2. Soaked in disinfectant for 24 hours

3. Cleaned with a brush from the tube end

4. Cleaned with a brush from the end opposite to the tube end

The correct answer is: Cleaned with a brush from the end opposite to the tube end

The proper cleaning of laryngeal masks is essential for ensuring their safety and effectiveness in subsequent procedures. When cleaning tools like laryngeal masks, attention must be paid to both technique and direction to prevent damage and ensure thorough cleaning. Cleaning the laryngeal mask with a brush from the end opposite to the tube end is the best practice. This method allows for better access to the interior surfaces of the mask while minimizing the risk of pushing debris or contaminants further into the device. By scrubbing from the non-tube end, you can effectively clean the areas that need it most without compromising the integrity or the functionality of the tube. Additionally, this technique helps to dislodge any particles or biofilm that may be present in the device. Using the approach of cleaning from the tube end could inadvertently force contaminants into the tube, making it less effective and potentially unsafe for future use. Proper cleaning is pivotal in infection control and maintaining the equipment's performance, reinforcing the importance of using the correct method and direction during cleaning. Therefore, the correct technique emphasizes both proper cleaning practices and protective measures for the device, aligning with standard infection prevention protocols.