Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

What visual indication may appear on an improperly cleaned instrument that has been disinfected in ortho-phthaldehyde?

1. Red-stain

2. Green-stain

3. Blue-stain

4. Yellow-stain

The correct answer is: Blue-stain

When instruments are improperly cleaned prior to disinfection in ortho-phthaldehyde, a blue stain may appear on the surface. This blue discoloration is an indication that residual organic material, such as blood or tissue, has not been adequately removed before the disinfection process. Ortho-phthaldehyde is a high-level disinfectant, and its effectiveness is compromised when it encounters such residues. The presence of the blue stain serves as a visual cue to sterile processing technicians that the instrument has not been properly cleaned, which can lead to inadequate sterilization and potential risk of infection. Understanding this stain is crucial for maintaining effective cleaning protocols and ensuring patient safety. Other color stains, such as red, green, or yellow, are not typically associated with ortho-phthaldehyde disinfection failures, making the blue stain the key indicator in this context.