Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What types of microorganisms are killed by high-level disinfection?

1. Only bacterial spores

2. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses

3. Only viruses and fungi

4. Bacterial spores only

The correct answer is: Bacteria, fungi, and viruses

High-level disinfection is a process that is capable of eliminating a wide range of microorganisms, making it crucial for practices in health care settings where maintaining sterility is essential. The correct response highlights that high-level disinfection is effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This level of disinfection goes beyond just sterilizing surfaces by targeting not only vegetative bacteria and fungi but also viruses. While some spores, particularly bacterial spores, may require a higher degree of sterilization (such as autoclaving) to be completely eliminated, high-level disinfectants effectively reduce the load of most pathogens to a safe level. They are particularly useful for disinfecting medical instruments that may come into contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. The other options mentioned do not reflect the comprehensive capability of high-level disinfectants. For instance, stating that only bacterial spores or only viruses and fungi are killed omits the range of effects that high-level disinfection has on other microbial forms, which is an essential aspect in understanding infection control protocols.