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Which of the following cleaners should be used to clean a phlebotomy workstation

A. 70% Isopropyl alcohol
B. Ethyl alcohol
C. 10% bleach solution
D. Undiluted bleach

User Jay Kumar
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1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The best cleaner for a phlebotomy workstation is 70% Isopropyl alcohol, as it effectively inhibits microbial growth by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes without the harshness of undiluted bleach.

Step-by-step explanation:

To clean a phlebotomy workstation, the recommended cleaner would be 70% Isopropyl alcohol (option A). This concentration of alcohol is effective at inhibiting microbial growth because it denatures proteins and disrupts cell membranes leading to cell lysis. It is also preferred because at higher concentrations, like 100% alcohol, rapid coagulation of surface proteins can prevent effective penetration into cells, thus reducing its efficacy. Disinfectants such as 10% bleach solution are also effective, especially for environmental cleaning. However, for a phlebotomy workstation that may come into contact with skin, alcohol is more appropriate due to its less irritating nature. Undiluted bleach is too harsh for regular cleaning of a workstation and may pose a risk due to its corrosive properties. 70% Isopropyl alcohol is also the commonly used concentration for disinfection in laboratories.

User Thierno Amadou Sow
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