Final answer:
An alcohol-based disinfectant should be used to decontaminate all exposed surfaces after a procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended method to decontaminate all exposed surfaces after a procedure is to use an alcohol-based disinfectant. Alcohol-based disinfectants, such as ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), are effective in killing microbes and are commonly used in healthcare settings for disinfection purposes. They work by rapidly denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, leading to the death of microorganisms. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and contact time when using alcohol-based disinfectants.