Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) Practice Exam

What should follow cleaning in Spaulding’s classification for semi-critical devices?

1. Not applicable

2. Low-level disinfection

3. High-level disinfection or sterilization

4. Immediate use

The correct answer is: High-level disinfection or sterilization

Following cleaning in Spaulding’s classification, semi-critical devices require high-level disinfection or sterilization. Semi-critical devices are those that come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin. Because they are involved in procedures that may introduce pathogens into the body, it is vital that they are meticulously processed to minimize infection risks. High-level disinfection is essential for these devices to ensure they are free from all microorganisms except large numbers of bacterial spores. This process typically involves the use of chemical agents that can achieve this level of disinfection, ensuring that any contaminants that may lead to infections are effectively eliminated. In instances where no spores are present in the device’s intended use, sterilization can provide an even higher level of assurance, making it the preferred method when feasible. This requirement for high-level disinfection or sterilization emphasizes the importance of adhering to sterile handling protocols in healthcare settings to ensure patient safety and prevent the transmission of infections. Hence, the focus on high-level disinfection or sterilization aligns with the likelihood of risk associated with semi-critical devices in clinical practice. Other methods, such as low-level disinfection, would not meet the safety standards required for these types of devices, while processes such as immediate use do not apply in the context