Question

Statement 1: Surface disinfection occurs after an intermediate-level disinfectant is sprayed onto a surface and allowed to air-dry.

Statement 2: Disinfection, however, is not effective unless the surface is first cleaned.

A. Only Statement 1 is true.
B. Only Statement 2 is true.
C. Both statements are true.
D. Both statements are false.

Answer 1

Surface disinfection can occur following the application of an intermediate-level disinfectant, and cleaning beforehand is essential for the disinfectant to be fully effective. Therefore, both statements are true.

Step-by-step explanation:

Statement 1 suggests that surface disinfection is achieved following the application and air-drying of an intermediate-level disinfectant. Intermediate-level disinfectants, which do not necessarily achieve sterilization, are capable of inactivating most microbes but may not be as effective against endospores and certain viruses. Therefore, surface disinfection can occur as described, assuming the disinfectant used is appropriate for the microbes present.

Statement 2 emphasizes the importance of cleaning surfaces ahead of disinfection. Cleaning is crucial as it removes substances that might impede the contact between the disinfectant and the microorganisms, such as bodily fluids, organic debris, or biofilms. By removing these materials first, the disinfectant can be more effective.

Both statements together highlight the significance of the cleaning process preceding disinfection and the effectiveness of intermediate-level disinfectants. Given this context, the correct answer is C. Both statements are true.