Ch20

They become contaminated w/ saliva or aerosol containig blood & saliva. They can act as reservoirs for microorganisms. can be transferred to instruments. They can prevent contamination of clinical contact areas.

• -surfaces with crevices
• -knobs
• -light handles
• -air water syringe handles
• -electrical switches

• 1. prevent the surface from becoming contaminated w/ the use of the surface barrier.
• 2. Preclean & disinfect the surface b/w patients.

• Disinfection: used to reduce or lower the # of microorganisms on inanimate objects.
• Sterilization: process that kills all microorganisms

• -Disinfectant: used for chemicals that are applied to inanimate surfaces, such as countertops & dental equipment.
• -Antiseptic: antimicrobial agents applied to living tissue(skin)

EPA

• -Intermediate: Sodium hypochlorite"bleach" is fast acting, economical and not EPA registered.
• -Low: Detergents/ desinfectant/water are reservoir for microorganisms

• 1. Use utility gloves, eyewear, protective clothing
• 2. precleaning, disinfecting product prepared
• 3. spray paper towel/ wipe surface (preclean)
• 4. (disinfect) spray towel & let surface remain moist
• 5. wipe dry

• -Glutaraldehyde
• -Chlorine dioxide
• -ortho

• -mixing & diluting
• -application technique
• -shelf life
• -activated use life
• -all safety warnings

If barriers are not used, surfaces should be cleaned & disinfected b/w patients w/ and EPA-registered hospital disinfectant w/ and HIV, HBV claim.

Clean w/ detergent or a low-level disinfectant & water or w/ and EPA-registered hospital disinfectant/detergent.