Infection control principles · USMLE Step 1

Which scenario requires sterilization rather than disinfection?

  1. Cleaning a reusable blood pressure cuff
  2. Cleaning surgical instruments
  3. Cleaning a hospital bed rail
  4. Cleaning a shared stethoscope
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Cleaning surgical instruments

Surgical instruments enter sterile body spaces and therefore require sterilization. Disinfection is insufficient for invasive devices.

Difficulty: Medium Question 8 of 20

Practice all 20 Infection control principles questions

Keep practicing

More Infection control principles questions