Disinfection Principles and Agents

Question 1

Cleaning

Answer 1

The physical removal of blood, body fluids and gross debris (bioburden) from an inanimate object

Question 2

Disinfection

Answer 2

Destruction of pathogenic microorganisms or their toxins or vectors by direct exposure to chemical or physical agents. Disinfection is discussed on three levels.

Question 3

High-level disinfection

Answer 3

Kills all microorganisms except spores and prions (CJD)

Question 4

Intermediate-level disinfection

Answer 4

Kills most microorganisms, including bacteria, most viruses and fungi. M. Tuberculosis and HBV; infective against spores

Question 5

Low-level disinfection

Answer 5

Kills some fungi and viruses, and most bacteria, but is not effective against spores and M. Tuberculosis

Question 6

Sterilization

Answer 6

Destruction of all microorganisms in or about an object with steam (flowing or pressurized), chemical agents (alcohol, phenol, heavy metals, or ethylene oxide gas), high-velocity electron bombardment, or ultraviolet radiation