NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A technician is preparing to clean and disinfect their workstation after completing a service. The state board regulations require the use of an EPA-registered hospital-level disinfectant. Which of the following best describes the characteristics of such a disinfectant?
- AIt is a sterilant, which kills all microbial life including spores.
- BIt is effective against bacteria but not viruses or fungi.
- CIt is effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and has a tuberculocidal claim.
- DIt is an antiseptic, suitable for use on skin but not hard surfaces.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. It is effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and has a tuberculocidal claim.
An EPA-registered hospital-level disinfectant, also known as a broad-spectrum disinfectant, is required in salons because it is proven to be effective against a wide range of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The tuberculocidal claim indicates its ability to kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a particularly hardy bacterium, demonstrating a high level of efficacy.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Sterilants kill all microbial life including spores, which is a higher level than typically required for general salon disinfection.
- B. Hospital-level disinfectants are broad-spectrum, meaning they kill more than just bacteria.
- D. Antiseptics are for skin; disinfectants are for non-porous surfaces and implements.
Hospital-Level Disinfectant
An EPA-registered disinfectant proven effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, often with a tuberculocidal claim.
- Broad-spectrum efficacy.
- Required for non-porous salon surfaces and implements.
- Tuberculocidal claim indicates high efficacy.
Memory trick: Hospital-level means broad, strong, and safe.