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2026 Statistics

Key Facts: CIS Exam

150

Total Questions

Multiple choice; includes unscored pretest items (HSPA CIS exam page)

3 hrs

Exam Time

HSPA CIS exam page

$140

Exam Fee

HSPA fee schedule

32%

Instrumentation ID

2024 JTA (heaviest domain)

Prometric

Delivery Vendor

Year-round at Prometric test centers (HSPA CIS exam page)

200 hrs

Required Experience

HSPA eligibility

The HSPA CIS exam uses 150 multiple-choice questions (a subset are unscored pretest items) with a 3-hour time limit and $140 fee. NEW 2024 JTA exam launched Dec 2025 with 6 domains: Instrumentation ID (32%), Inspection/Assembly (20%), Quality Systems (20%), Decontamination (12%), Packaging (10%), Sterilization (6%). Scoring is criterion-referenced (cut score not disclosed). Requires CRCST + 200 hours SP experience. Delivered year-round at Prometric.

Sample CIS Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to test your CIS exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which characteristic distinguishes tungsten carbide instruments from standard stainless steel instruments?

A.They have blue anodized handles

B.They have gold-colored handles

C.They are marked with black handles

D.They have silver matte-finished handles

Explanation: Tungsten carbide (TC) instruments are identified by their distinctive gold-colored handles. The TC inserts are bonded to the jaws or tips to provide superior cutting edges and gripping surfaces. This gold marking is an industry-standard convention that allows sterile processing professionals to quickly differentiate TC instruments from standard stainless steel versions.

2What is the primary advantage of titanium instruments over stainless steel instruments?

A.Greater hardness and durability

B.Lower cost per unit

C.Lighter weight and non-magnetic properties

D.Better compatibility with ultrasonic cleaning

Explanation: Titanium instruments are approximately 40% lighter than stainless steel and are non-magnetic, making them ideal for use in MRI environments and microsurgery where instrument weight affects surgeon fatigue. When anodized, titanium instruments display a distinctive blue or purple color. While titanium is corrosion-resistant, it is generally softer than stainless steel and more expensive.

3A Kerrison rongeur is most commonly used in which surgical specialty?

A.Cardiovascular surgery

B.Neurosurgery

C.Ophthalmic surgery

D.Orthopedic surgery

Explanation: Kerrison rongeurs are primarily used in neurosurgery and spinal procedures to remove bone and disc material from around the spinal cord and nerve roots. They feature a spring-loaded mechanism with a footplate that slides under bone to punch away small pieces. While they may occasionally be used in orthopedic spine cases, they are classified as neurosurgical instruments.

4Which instrument marking method involves using a laser to create a permanent identification mark on the instrument surface?

A.Electrolytic etching

B.Laser marking

C.Vibropeen marking

D.Ink stamping

Explanation: Laser marking (also called laser etching or laser engraving) uses focused light energy to create a permanent mark on the instrument surface. This method is preferred for high-value instruments because it produces a precise, durable mark without creating deep surface disruption that could harbor bioburden. Laser marks are resistant to the repeated cleaning and sterilization cycles instruments undergo.

5The index card test is used to evaluate which instrument function?

A.Ratchet tension of hemostats

B.Cutting ability of scissors

C.Grasping strength of forceps

D.Tip alignment of needle holders

Explanation: The index card test (also called the paper test) is used to evaluate the sharpness and cutting ability of scissors. A properly functioning pair of scissors should cut smoothly and cleanly through a single layer of index card paper all the way to the tip without snagging, folding, or leaving rough edges. If the scissors fail this test, they need sharpening or replacement.

6Which type of surgical instrument is classified as a 'reposable'?

A.An instrument that is entirely single-use and disposable

B.An instrument with both reusable and single-use disposable components

C.An instrument that can be reprocessed a limited number of times

D.An instrument made from recycled materials

Explanation: A reposable instrument combines reusable and single-use components. The reusable handle or body is reprocessed according to standard protocols, while the single-use component (such as a blade, tip, or insert) is discarded after each use and replaced with a new one. This design provides the cost benefits of reusable instruments while maintaining the precision of new cutting or working surfaces for each procedure.

7What is the primary purpose of a borescope in sterile processing?

A.To measure the temperature inside a sterilizer chamber

B.To inspect the internal lumens and channels of instruments

C.To calibrate the pressure gauges on autoclaves

D.To verify the concentration of enzymatic detergent

Explanation: A borescope is a visual inspection device with a small camera and light source that is inserted into the internal lumens, channels, and cavities of surgical instruments to check for residual soil, bioburden, or damage that cannot be seen with the naked eye. This is particularly important for complex instruments with narrow lumens such as robotic instruments, endoscopes, and powered surgical tools.

8German-grade stainless steel instruments are preferred because they contain which specific composition?

A.Higher carbon content for increased hardness

B.Higher chromium and lower carbon content for corrosion resistance and edge retention

C.Pure iron with no alloy additions

D.Aluminum alloy for reduced weight

Explanation: German-grade (also called surgical-grade) stainless steel instruments are manufactured with a specific ratio of chromium, nickel, and carbon that provides an optimal balance of corrosion resistance, hardness, and edge retention. The higher chromium content (typically 12-14%) creates a protective passive oxide layer, while controlled carbon levels allow proper hardening during heat treatment. This composition meets strict DIN (German Industrial Standard) specifications.

9When inspecting a hemostat, the technician notices that the tips do not align when the jaws are closed. What is the correct action?

A.Continue using the instrument since hemostats do not require precise tip alignment

B.Send the instrument for repair or replacement

C.Apply lubricant to the box lock and retest

D.Tighten the screw pin to adjust alignment

Explanation: Misaligned tips on a hemostat indicate that the instrument is not functioning properly and could fail to adequately clamp vessels during surgery, potentially causing patient harm. The instrument must be removed from service and sent for professional repair or replacement. Attempting field repairs to box lock instruments is not appropriate as it could further damage the instrument or create an unsafe condition.

10Which sterilization method uses ethylene oxide gas?

A.Steam sterilization (autoclaving)

B.ETO sterilization

C.Vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilization

D.Dry heat sterilization

Explanation: ETO (ethylene oxide) sterilization is a low-temperature chemical sterilization method that uses ethylene oxide gas to sterilize heat-sensitive and moisture-sensitive instruments and devices. ETO works by alkylating proteins and DNA in microorganisms. It requires an aeration period after sterilization to remove toxic ETO residuals from devices before they can be safely used on patients.

About the CIS Exam

The CIS credential certifies advanced instrument specialists in sterile processing. The NEW exam (effective Dec 2025, based on 2024 JTA) covers instrumentation identification (32%), inspection/testing/integrity/assembly (20%), quality and information systems (20%), decontamination processes (12%), preparation and packaging (10%), and disinfection/sterilization (6%). Requires current CRCST + 200 hours SP experience.

Questions

150 scored questions

Time Limit

3 hours

Passing Score

Criterion-referenced (cut score not disclosed)

Exam Fee

$140 (HSPA)

CIS Exam Content Outline

32%

Instrumentation Identification

Single-use vs reusable, specialty instruments (ortho, neuro, CV), manufacturing types (titanium, TC), marking methods

20%

Inspection, Testing, Integrity & Assembly

Visual inspection, borescope, sharpness testing, functionality testing, defects, preventive maintenance

20%

Quality & Information Systems

IFU compliance, Lean/Six Sigma, KPIs, audits, RCA, instrument tracking, loaner management

12%

Decontamination Processes

Cleaning QA, water selection, chemical compatibility, specialized instruments, prion decontamination

10%

Preparation & Packaging

Packaging systems, wraps, rigid containers, heat sealers, material compatibility

Disinfection & Sterilization

Steam, EtO, hydrogen peroxide sterilization, biological indicators, failure troubleshooting

How to Pass the CIS Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: Criterion-referenced (cut score not disclosed)
Exam length: 150 questions
Time limit: 3 hours
Exam fee: $140

Keys to Passing

Complete 500+ practice questions
Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
Focus on highest-weighted sections
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

CIS Study Tips from Top Performers

1Instrumentation ID is 32% — learn to identify instruments by specialty (ortho, neuro, CV, ophthalmic), manufacturing material (stainless, titanium, TC), and marking methods

2Know tungsten carbide (gold handles), titanium (lightweight, blue/purple anodized), and stainless steel characteristics

3Master instrument testing: index card test (scissors), dowel rod test, sharpness tests, and borescope inspection for lumened instruments

4Study the new HSPA Sterile Processing Instrument Manual 2nd Edition — it's the primary reference for the updated exam

Frequently Asked Questions

What changed in the new CIS exam?

Launched Dec 2025 based on 2024 JTA. Went from 7 to 6 domains. Instrumentation Identification is now 32% (the heaviest). New reference: HSPA Sterile Processing Instrument Manual 2nd Ed (2025).

What are the prerequisites?

Must hold current CRCST certification + 200 hours documented SP department experience across 5 areas within the past 5 years, verified by supervisor.

How is the CIS exam scored and where is it delivered?

Scoring is criterion-referenced and reported as pass/fail; HSPA does not publish a fixed percentage cut score. The exam is computer-based and delivered at Prometric proctored test centers year-round.

100+ Free CIS Practice Questions

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