Certified Medical Assistant (CMA AAMA)Safety and Infection ControlMedium
A medical assistant is preparing to clean an examination room after a patient encounter. Which of the following solutions is generally recommended for routine disinfection of non-porous surfaces in a medical clinic?
- AHydrogen peroxide (3%)
- BRubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl)
- C1:10 bleach solution
- DPlain water
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 1:10 bleach solution
For routine disinfection of non-porous surfaces in a medical clinic, especially when bloodborne pathogens are a concern or general high-level disinfection is needed, a 1:10 bleach solution is a commonly recommended and effective agent. It is recognized by regulatory bodies like OSHA for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While hydrogen peroxide has disinfectant properties, a 3% solution is generally not strong enough for routine clinical surface disinfection compared to bleach.
- B. Rubbing alcohol is a good antiseptic but evaporates quickly and is not ideal for broad surface disinfection, especially against spores.
- D. Plain water has no disinfectant properties and is inadequate for infection control.
1:10 Bleach Solution Disinfection
A 1:10 dilution of household bleach (sodium hypochlorite) in water is a potent, broad-spectrum disinfectant effective against many pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, commonly used for non-porous surface disinfection in healthcare settings.
- Effective against bloodborne pathogens as per OSHA.
- Must be freshly prepared daily as its efficacy degrades over time.
- Requires proper ventilation due to fumes.
Memory trick: Bleach Brightens Bad Bugs, Keeping Clinics Clean.