Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

What type of device should be used for each patient in an ICU to prevent contamination during respiratory support?

1. Reusable nasal cannulas

2. Disposable face masks

3. Single-use filters and valves

4. Multiple-use nebulizers

The correct answer is: Single-use filters and valves

In the context of preventing contamination during respiratory support in an ICU setting, using single-use filters and valves is the most appropriate choice. These devices are designed to be used one time for each patient, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination that can occur when devices are reused. The single-use nature ensures that any potential pathogens from one patient do not transfer to another, which is crucial in a critical care environment where patients often have compromised immune systems. Furthermore, single-use filters and valves can effectively filter out airborne contaminants and help maintain a sterile environment for respiratory support. They are specifically engineered to provide high protection against the transmission of respiratory pathogens, making them essential for infection control in intensive care. In contrast, other options such as reusable nasal cannulas and multiple-use nebulizers pose a higher risk of contamination since they are designed for repeated use and may not always be adequately sterilized between patients. Disposable face masks can provide some degree of protection but do not have the specific filtration characteristics that single-use filters and valves offer for respiratory support. Thus, single-use filters and valves represent the best practice for maintaining patient safety in an ICU setting.