TL;DR
Levels of Disinfection: High-level (kills all except some spores), intermediate (kills most), and low-level (kills some vegetative bacteria) disinfection.
Levels of Disinfection
Definition
High-level (kills all except some spores), intermediate (kills most), and low-level (kills some vegetative bacteria) disinfection.
Safety Considerations
Maintaining safety during procedures involving levels of disinfection requires adherence to sterile technique:
- Sterile drapes are placed from the operative site outward (near to far)
- Edges of anything that encloses sterile contents are considered unsterile (1-inch border)
- Movement around the sterile field must not cause air currents, no reaching over the field, no turning back to the field
- Moisture strikes through: wet drapes are contaminated, use impervious drapes and keep the field dry
Workplace Applications
In daily practice, levels of disinfection is applied consistently according to facility protocols and current evidence-based guidelines. Competency is maintained through annual skills validation, continuing education, and quality improvement participation.
Calculation Methods
Relevant parameters for levels of disinfection in the surgical setting:
- Cidex OPA
- High-level disinfection (not sterilization). 0.55% OPA, 12 minutes soak at 20 C. For semi-critical items (endoscopes). Rinse thoroughly
- ETO (ethylene oxide)
- Chemical gas sterilization. 600mg/L concentration, 130 F, 2-5 hours exposure, 8-12 hours aeration. For heat/moisture-sensitive items
Historical Context
Standards for levels of disinfection have evolved over decades of clinical research and regulatory development. Current evidence-based guidelines reflect lessons learned from adverse events, clinical trials, and quality improvement initiatives. Staying current with guideline updates is part of professional continuing education requirements.
Common Errors
Surgical technology errors related to levels of disinfection include:
- Breaking sterile technique without recognizing the breach
- Incorrect count procedures: initial count performed before incision: sponges, sharps, instruments, miscellaneous
- Passing instruments improperly. Always pass handles first, sharp-end protected
- Failing to communicate equipment needs before the procedure begins
Exam Focus Areas
On the Cst Surgical Tech, Medical Assistant exam(s), questions about levels of disinfection typically test:
- Counting procedures and protocols for discrepancies
- Sterilization parameters and monitoring methods
- Instrument identification, function, and proper passing technique
- Sterile technique maintenance and contamination recognition
Why It Matters
Disinfection levels and when each is appropriate tested on CST and MA exams.
Practice This Topic
Ready to practice for the CST SURGICAL TECH?
Adaptive practice powered by Item Response Theory targets your weak areas. Start with 3 free sessions.
Start free practice →