Final answer:
In a medical lab, a bleach solution is commonly used for disinfecting countertops due to its effectiveness against a broad range of pathogens. Isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are also used for disinfection, but bleach may be preferred for its strong efficacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When cleaning countertops in a lab, a medical assistant may use a variety of disinfectants. However, for general disinfection, a bleach solution is commonly used due to its broad-spectrum efficacy in killing germs including bacteria, viruses, and fungi (Option c). Isopropyl alcohol (Option a) and hydrogen peroxide (Option b) are also commonly used disinfectants that work by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes.
Isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol), as shown in Figure 13.24 and Figure 16.4.1, is used at concentrations of about 70% to denature proteins and disrupt cell metabolism, leading to cell lysis. In contrast, hydrogen peroxide is often used in a 3% solution as indicated in Figure 16.7.1. In a medical laboratory, where various pathogens are expected to be present, a bleach solution may be a more appropriate choice because of its strong and broad-spectrum disinfecting properties.