Final answer:
Housekeeping surfaces under the CDC guidelines include non-clinical, common-use surfaces such as those in the reception area and restrooms, which are designated as option C. They require regular cleaning and disinfection to prevent infection spread. Maintaining proper hand hygiene is also critical in healthcare settings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option : c
Under the CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Healthcare Settings—2003, housekeeping surfaces refer to non-clinical, common-use surfaces. These are the areas that do not come into contact with patients directly but still require regular cleaning and disinfection to prevent the spread of infection within a healthcare setting.
Housekeeping surfaces include floors, walls, and surfaces in the reception area, for example, that are not expected to become contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). Surfaces in the restroom also fall under this category, although they are not the only ones considered as housekeeping surfaces. In light of Marisa's case as mentioned, it is crucial to maintain cleanliness and infection control standards not only in direct patient-contact areas but also in these common-use spaces to prevent the transmission of infectious agents.
Furthermore, hand hygiene is a critical component of preventing the spread of infection as outlined by the CDC. This includes proper handwashing techniques, which are vital not only for the general public but especially for healthcare workers who may encounter a variety of pathogens in clinical settings.
By understanding surface classification and maintaining strict hand hygiene practices, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), ensuring a safer environment for both staff and patients.