Final answer:
The disinfecting contact time of alcohol on porous items after cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including the concentration of the alcohol, the type of alcohol used, and the specific microorganism being targeted.
Step-by-step explanation:
The disinfecting contact time of alcohol on porous items after cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including the concentration of the alcohol, the type of alcohol used, and the specific microorganism being targeted. Generally, it is recommended to use alcohol concentrations of about 70% in aqueous solution for disinfection purposes.
Alcohols work by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes, which leads to cell lysis. They are typically effective against bacteria and fungi, but may not be effective against all viruses.
It is important to note that alcohol disinfection is not considered sporicidal, meaning it may not eliminate bacterial spores. Additionally, the effectiveness of alcohol disinfection can be compromised by factors such as the presence of organic debris or biofilms on surfaces.