California Barber Written ExamSafety and HealthEasy
A barber is using a disinfectant solution in a wet sanitizer. The solution's manufacturer instructions state a 10-minute contact time for effective disinfection. If the barber places implements into the solution at 9:00 AM, what is the earliest time they can be removed and considered properly disinfected?
- A9:15 AM
- B9:10 AM
- C9:20 AM
- D9:05 AM
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 9:10 AM
The implements must remain submerged in the disinfectant solution for the full contact time specified by the manufacturer. If the required contact time is 10 minutes and they are placed in at 9:00 AM, they can be removed at 9:10 AM (9:00 AM + 10 minutes).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is longer than necessary, though still effective, it's not the earliest time.
- C. This is significantly longer than necessary, indicating a misunderstanding of the contact time.
- D. This is too short; 5 minutes is half the required contact time.
Disinfectant Contact Time
The specific duration a disinfectant must remain wet on a surface or in contact with an item to achieve its intended germicidal action.
- Set by manufacturer.
- Must be strictly followed.
- Crucial for effectiveness.
Memory trick: Contact time: No shortcuts, just full immersion.