Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

Should detergents used in reprocessing be of neutral pH?

1. Yes, they should be of neutral pH

2. No, they should be alkaline

3. pH is not important

4. Yes, they should be acidic

The correct answer is: Yes, they should be of neutral pH

Detergents used in reprocessing medical devices should indeed be of neutral pH. This is important because neutral pH detergents are effective in cleaning without causing damage to the materials of the medical devices. Many medical devices are made from sensitive materials that can be adversely affected by extreme pH levels, whether acidic or alkaline. Neutral pH detergents help in the removal of organic and inorganic soils while minimizing the risk of corrosion, degradation, or adverse reactions with the device materials. This is particularly crucial when dealing with devices that are made from metals, plastics, or other materials commonly found in the medical field. Using detergents with a neutral pH ensures compatibility with a wide range of materials and helps maintain the integrity and functionality of the medical devices after cleaning. Additionally, using alkaline or acidic detergents may be appropriate in specific scenarios, but these situations are not universal and often require careful consideration of the device material. Therefore, promoting the use of neutral pH detergents supports best practices in the reprocessing and cleaning of medical instruments.