Which statement correctly distinguishes disinfection from sterilisation?

Correct answer: C. Disinfection reduces pathogens on objects

  • A. Disinfection destroys all spores on equipment
  • B. Sterilisation is used only for hospital floors
  • C. Disinfection reduces pathogens on objects
  • D. Sterilisation means washing with clean water

Explanation

Disinfection reduces or destroys many pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate objects, but it may not destroy bacterial spores. Sterilisation is the complete destruction of all forms of microbial life on suitable equipment.

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About Infection Prevention and Asepsis

Asepsis covers the chain of infection, hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, standard and transmission-based precautions, sterilisation, disinfection and safe waste disposal. The key distinction is between medical asepsis, which reduces microorganisms, and surgical asepsis, which maintains a sterile field during invasive procedures.

Practise Infection Prevention and Asepsis

50 free Infection Prevention and Asepsis MCQs from Fundamentals of Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

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