Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a method of high-level disinfection?

1. Peracetic acid for 30 mins

2. 2% glutaraldehyde for 20 mins

3. Steam under pressure for 10 mins

4. Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma for 75 mins

The correct answer is: 2% glutaraldehyde for 20 mins

High-level disinfection is a process that eliminates a significant number of microorganisms from instruments and surfaces that come into contact with sterile tissue. The appropriate method for this level of disinfection is crucial for ensuring patient safety and preventing the risk of infection. Using 2% glutaraldehyde for a duration of 20 minutes is recognized as a method that achieves high-level disinfection, making it effective for treating heat-sensitive medical instruments. Glutaraldehyde works through its ability to cross-link proteins, leading to the inactivation of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The specified time of 20 minutes is generally sufficient for achieving high-level disinfection with this solution under appropriate conditions. The other options differ either in efficacy, required conditions, or classification of disinfection. For instance, peracetic acid is typically used for high-level disinfection as well, but the time of use and concentration also needs to be accurately tailored to achieve the desired level. Steam under pressure, while effective for sterilization, does not qualify for high-level disinfection as it is intended for the complete destruction of all microorganisms, including spores. Hydrogen peroxide gas plasma is often utilized for low-temperature sterilization rather than disinfection, particularly in settings where moisture-sensitive instruments are present. Therefore,