CHAPTER 4

Notes

CHAPTER 4 1. What are considered high-level disinfectants and what is their function? High-level disinfectants are chemical agents that eliminate all microorganisms except large numbers of bacterial spores. They are used for semi-critical medical devices that contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin. Function of High-Level Disinfectants • Destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mycobacteria • Interrupt microbial metabolism and reproduction • Denature proteins and disrupt cell membranes • Used when sterilization isn’t feasible 2. Understand the use of boiling water and how it decreases the risk of illness. • Boiling water kills most bacteria and inactivates most viruses within 15 minutes. • It’s an effective method to reduce the risk of illness by destroying vegetative organisms. • Boiling water is not a true sterilization process, but it significantly lowers microbial contamination. • By using boiling, we denature proteins, leading to microbial death. • Recommended especially when higher-level sterilization is not available, and equipment or surfaces need basic disinfection. 3. Why are ultraviolet lights important? a. What is gamma irradiation used for? 💡 Importance of Ultravio...