New York Tattoo License Practice Test

Which cleaning procedure is best suited for intermediate risk items?

1. Using a simple detergent and warm water

2. CLEAN AND STERILIZE with steam

3. Clean, dry, and disinfect using intermediate methods

4. Only using high-level disinfectants

The correct answer is: Clean, dry, and disinfect using intermediate methods

The cleaning procedure best suited for intermediate risk items involves cleaning, drying, and disinfecting using intermediate methods. Intermediate risk items are those that come into contact with non-intact skin or mucous membranes and require a higher level of disinfection than low-risk items, which only come into contact with intact skin. Using intermediate-level disinfection provides sufficient assurance that pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, are effectively killed, thus reducing the risk of infection to clients and practitioners. This process usually involves cleaning the surface first to remove any organic matter or debris, followed by effective disinfection with agents that are capable of killing a wide range of microorganisms. The other choices either do not provide the necessary level of disinfection or are more suited for low- or high-risk items. For instance, simply using a detergent and warm water may not be sufficient to eliminate pathogens on intermediate risk items. Steam sterilization is typically reserved for high-risk items that penetrate skin or mucous membranes, while relying solely on high-level disinfectants is not necessary and may be excessive for items categorized as intermediate risk. This is why the approach of cleaning, drying, and disinfecting with intermediate methods is the most appropriate and effective process for these items.