28 Questions
What is the main goal of using disinfectants, antiseptics, and preservatives?
To destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms
What is the outcome of zero survival in terms of microorganisms?
A complete elimination of microorganisms
What is the primary difference between sterilization and disinfection?
Sterilization is a more intense process than disinfection
What is the purpose of controlling microorganisms in terms of infection?
To reduce the microbial load and prevent infection
What do disinfectants, antiseptics, and preservatives have in common?
They are all used to destroy or inhibit microorganisms
What is the result of limiting microorganisms?
A decrease in the risk of infection
What is the relationship between microbial load and infection?
A decrease in microbial load decreases the risk of infection
What is the ultimate goal of using disinfectants, antiseptics, and preservatives in terms of microorganisms?
To achieve zero survival
What type of microorganisms are not completely destroyed by intermediate level disinfection?
Some viruses and fungi
Which of the following microorganisms is typically destroyed by intermediate level disinfection?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
What is the characteristic of intermediate level disinfection in terms of sporicidal activity?
Limited activity
What is the primary goal of intermediate level disinfection?
To destroy all vegetative bacteria including Mycobacterium tuberculosis
What is a characteristic of the microorganisms that are not affected by intermediate level disinfection?
They are highly resistant to disinfection
What type of microorganisms can low level disinfection destroy?
Most vegetative bacteria, some fungi, and some viruses
What is NOT destroyed by low level disinfection?
Spores and some resistant microorganisms
What can low level disinfection NOT do?
Destroy spores
What type of microorganisms are likely to be resistant to low level disinfection?
Spores and some resistant microorganisms
What is the overall effect of low level disinfection on microorganisms?
Destroys most vegetative bacteria, some fungi, and some viruses
In which type of products should preservatives kill any microbial contaminants introduced accidentally during use?
Sterile products such as eye-drops and multi-dose injections
What is the primary function of preservatives in sterile products?
To kill any microbial contaminants introduced accidentally during use
Why are preservatives necessary in multi-dose injections?
To kill any microbial contaminants introduced accidentally during use
What is the consequence of not using preservatives in sterile products?
The product may become contaminated with microorganisms
Which of the following is a benefit of using preservatives in eye-drops?
Reduced risk of microbial contamination
Which of the following is a common disinfectant used in households?
Bleach
What is the difference between antiseptics and disinfectants?
Antiseptics are used on living tissues, while disinfectants are used on inanimate objects
Which of the following is an example of a preservative used in food?
Salt
What is the primary purpose of using preservatives in cosmetics?
To extend shelf life
Which of the following properties is desirable in an effective disinfectant?
Biodegradability
Study Notes
Disinfectants, Antiseptics, and Preservatives
- Disinfectants, antiseptics, and preservatives are chemicals that can destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
- Destruction of microorganisms implies a zero survival rate, meaning the end of microbial life.
- Control of microorganisms can be achieved through sterilization, disinfection, or preservation.
Disinfection Levels
- Intermediate level disinfection: destroys all vegetative bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but may not include some viruses and fungi, and has limited or no sporicidal activity.
- Low level disinfection: destroys most vegetative bacteria, some fungi, and some viruses, but does not include spores and more resistant microorganisms.
Preservatives in Sterile Products
- In sterile products, such as eye drops and multi-dose injections, preservatives should kill any microbial contaminants introduced accidentally during use.
Learn about the different types of chemicals used to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including disinfectants, antiseptics, and preservatives.
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