Disinfectant

Question 1

Define disinfection

Answer 1

physical/ chemical destruction of micro-organsims
— complete spore elimination

Question 2

What are the common types of disinfection?

Answer 2

Phenols, Halogens, Halogenate, Iodophors, Biguanides, Peroxides and Aldehydes

Question 3

Halogenate-

Answer 3

bacteria, fungi, viruses and spores, low toxicity/ corrosive- not inactivated by organic matter

Question 4

Biguanides-

Answer 4

hibbiscrub, savlon
low toxicity, not irritant- inactivated by organic matter- soaps/ plastics NOT bodily fluids
residual effect on tissue
WOUND DISINFECTION

Question 5

Iodophors-

Answer 5

bacteria, fungi, virus, spores
bleach effect- inactivated by organic matter, corrodes/ stains metal

Question 6

What is important to consider when choosing the right disinfectant?

Answer 6

toxicity to patient/ staff
contact time
odour
cost
stability
corrosive/ staining?
micro-organism susceptibility