Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the MDRAO Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and detailed explanations for each question. Boost your confidence and pass your exam!

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What is the primary purpose of using halogens like chlorine in disinfection?

To serve as a drying agent
To act as an effective sterilant
To provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity
To enhance the cleaning efficiency of detergents

The correct answer is: To provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity

The primary purpose of using halogens like chlorine in disinfection is to provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Halogens are well-regarded for their ability to effectively kill or inactivate a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This broad-spectrum action makes them highly valuable in various disinfection processes, particularly in healthcare settings where the risk of infection from multiple types of microorganisms is significant. Chlorine, in particular, has a strong oxidizing property that disrupts cellular functions of microorganisms, leading to their destruction. This quality allows it to be effective in diverse applications, including water treatment, surface disinfection, and sterilization of medical instruments. While other options illustrate various functions related to cleaning and disinfection, they do not capture the comprehensive efficacy of halogens in terms of microbial lethality across different types of pathogens, which is the essence of their use in disinfection.