New York Tattoo License Practice Test

What type of disinfectant is classified as a low-level disinfectant?

1. 2% gluteraldehyde

2. 70% isopropyl alcohol

3. Quaternary ammonium compounds

4. Bleach solutions

The correct answer is: Quaternary ammonium compounds

Low-level disinfectants are generally effective against a variety of microbial contaminants but may not be suitable for all applications. Quaternary ammonium compounds are classified as low-level disinfectants, primarily used for cleaning and disinfection surfaces in non-critical areas. They are effective against some bacteria and viruses but do not provide adequate disinfection against more resilient pathogens like tuberculosis or spores. When comparing this to other options, 2% glutaraldehyde is a high-level disinfectant often used for sterilizing medical equipment, while 70% isopropyl alcohol is typically classified as an intermediate-level disinfectant, effective against a wide variety of organisms but mainly ethanol or isopropyl alcohol formulations. Bleach solutions are powerful high-level disinfectants used for their broad-spectrum efficacy against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This classification underlines the varying levels of antimicrobial activity among different disinfectants and the specific contexts in which they are appropriately used. Thus, quaternary ammonium compounds' designation as a low-level disinfectant aligns with their use and effectiveness profile in many environmental cleaning scenarios.