Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam 2025 - Free Sterile Processing Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

Cocci refer to a classification of bacteria that are characterized by their spherical or round shape. This classification is a fundamental aspect of microbiology and is crucial for understanding various bacterial properties, including how they multiply and their overall impact on infections and diseases.

The term "coccus" comes from the Greek word for "berry," which reflects its round appearance. This shape can appear singularly or in arrangements, such as clusters (staphylococci) or chains (streptococci), but the defining characteristic remains its round form. Therefore, the answer highlights the essential feature of cocci that distinguishes them from other bacterial shapes, underscoring their significance in both clinical and laboratory settings. Understanding this classification is vital for sterile processing technicians to recognize how different bacteria may behave, how they are targeted by sterilization methods, and the implications for infection control.