An instrument that will come into contact with only the skin of a patient should be disinfected with a(n)
A) high-level germicide.
B) low-level germicide.
C) intermediate-level germicide.
D) degerming agent only.
E) germistatic agent only.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Instruments that come into contact with only the skin of a patient are typically disinfected with a low-level germicide. Low-level germicides are sufficient for killing most bacteria, some viruses, and some fungi that can be present on the skin, without the need for the more potent germicidal actions of intermediate- or high-level germicides, which are reserved for instruments that come into contact with mucous membranes or are invasive.

An Instrument That Will Come into Contact with Only the Skin