NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
Which of the following describes the correct order of operations for cleaning and disinfecting non-porous implements in a salon setting?
- AImmerse in disinfectant, wash with soap and water, rinse, air dry.
- BAir dry, wash with soap and water, rinse, immerse in disinfectant.
- CRinse, wash with soap and water, immerse in disinfectant, air dry.
- DWash with soap and water, rinse, immerse in disinfectant, air dry.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Wash with soap and water, rinse, immerse in disinfectant, air dry.
Proper infection control requires that implements are thoroughly cleaned with soap and water to remove all visible debris and pathogens *before* they are immersed in a disinfectant. Disinfectants cannot effectively penetrate organic matter. After disinfection, implements should be rinsed (if required by disinfectant) and then air-dried to prevent recontamination.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Disinfecting dirty implements is ineffective as organic matter can shield pathogens from the disinfectant.
- B. Air drying dirty implements first is unsanitary and makes subsequent cleaning more difficult.
- C. Rinsing before washing may not remove all debris effectively.
Disinfection Procedure
A multi-step process for making non-porous implements safe for reuse by eliminating most pathogenic microorganisms.
- Cleaning (removing debris) must always precede disinfection.
- Use EPA-registered disinfectants.
- Follow manufacturer's contact times.
Memory trick: Clean Before You Kill.