Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

Which method of disinfection is primarily utilized for semi-critical devices?

1. High-level disinfection

2. Low-level disinfection

3. Sterilization

4. Chemical soaking

The correct answer is: High-level disinfection

High-level disinfection is indeed the primary method utilized for semi-critical devices. Semi-critical devices are those that come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin. They require a higher level of disinfection than non-critical devices, which only touch intact skin but do not penetrate it. High-level disinfection effectively eliminates most pathogens but may not necessarily kill all bacterial spores, making it suitable for semi-critical items like endoscopes, anesthesia equipment, and other reusable medical instruments that do not require complete sterilization. This method usually involves the use of chemical disinfectants that are specifically formulated to achieve high-level disinfection. In contrast, sterilization is an even more rigorous process that completely destroys all forms of microbial life, including spores, and is typically necessary for critical devices that enter sterile body cavities. Low-level disinfection is not adequate for semi-critical devices as it does not eliminate all pathogens. Chemical soaking can be a method of achieving high-level disinfection but is described more specifically within the high-level disinfection category rather than as a standalone method.