High-Level Disinfection Flashcards
7 cards from real MDRAO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 High-Level Disinfection flashcards as text
Which of the following is an advantage of orthophthalaldehyde (OPA) over glutaraldehyde for high-level disinfection?
Answer: Less toxic vapor and reduced eye/skin irritation
OPA has significantly lower vapor pressure than glutaraldehyde, resulting in less odor, fewer respiratory irritant concerns, and reduced need for special ventilation.
The minimum recommended contact time for high-level disinfection with 2% glutaraldehyde at 20°C (68°F) is typically:
Answer: 20 minutes
At 20°C, a minimum contact time of 20 minutes is required for 2% glutaraldehyde to achieve high-level disinfection.
After high-level disinfection, devices must be rinsed thoroughly. What is the PREFERRED rinsing solution?
Answer: Sterile or filtered water
Sterile or filtered water prevents recontamination from waterborne pathogens such as Legionella or Pseudomonas that may be present in tap water.
Peracetic acid is often preferred for automated endoscope reprocessors because it:
Answer: Is effective at low concentrations with rapid action and low residue
Peracetic acid achieves HLD rapidly, leaves minimal residue, and breaks down into non-toxic byproducts (acetic acid and water), making it well-suited for automated systems.
How does elevated temperature affect the efficacy of high-level disinfectant solutions?
Answer: It increases efficacy, allowing shorter contact times
Higher temperatures increase the rate of chemical reactions, enhancing the disinfectant's microbicidal activity and often reducing the required contact time.
Biofilm on medical devices is a significant concern for HLD because:
Answer: Biofilm protects embedded microorganisms from chemical disinfectants
Biofilm is a matrix of microorganisms and extracellular material that shields bacteria from disinfectants, making cleaning prior to HLD critical to disrupt and remove it.
A device labeled as single-use (SUO) by the manufacturer is presented for high-level disinfection and reuse. What is the correct action?
Answer: Do not reprocess; single-use devices must be discarded after use
Single-use devices are cleared by regulators for one-time use only; reprocessing them without specific regulatory authorization carries liability and patient safety risks.