Antiseptics and Disinfectants Flashcards
an agent that cleanses
detergent
An agent that destroys disease-producing microorganisms or inactivates viruses used primarily on inanimate objects.
disinfectant
An agent that destroys disease-producing microorganisms or inactivates viruses used primarily on living tissue.
antiseptic
having the capacity to or tending to destroy or inactivate viruses
virucidal
four rules for disinfection and antiseptic use
Always read LABELS and follow instructions
Proper DILUTION is critical
Removal of organic DEBRIS prior to disinfection is critical
Adequate contact TIME is critical
six traits of alcohols
Bactericidal
Tuberculocidal
Minimally virucidal
NOT fungicidal
NOT sporicidal
Do NOT penetrate organic material
adding what to alcohols can improve sporicidal and virucidal activity
iodine at 1-2%
what should alcohol not be applied to
open wounds
avoid using alcohol when prepping for what two procedures
electrocautery or laser surgery
Primarily for sterilizing equipment that can’t handle being autoclaved
ethylene oxide
three dangerous traits of ethylene oxide
Poisonous gas
Flammable
Carcinogenic
how is ethylene oxide used to sterilize
gas is diffused through a chamber - long aeration period before objects can be used
Primarily for fixing tissue samples for submission to histopathology.
formaldehyde
formaldehyde is also highly effective as a _______ but generally isn’t used for that because it is a ________
disinfectant
carcinogen
two halogens
chlorines and iodines