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Multiple Choice Question Which of the following statements is correct about the use of alcohols as chemical control agents? Alcohols will eliminate bacterial endospores. Dipping small instruments in ethanol for a few seconds will result in disinfection. Ethanol and isopropanol are the most commonly used agents. Isopropanol is used in a \( 10 \% \) concentration.

Ask by Montgomery Guzman. in the United States
Feb 18,2025

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Ethanol and isopropanol are the most commonly used disinfectants.

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The correct answer is: Ethanol and isopropanol are the most commonly used agents. Explanation: • Alcohols (ethanol and isopropanol) are widely used as disinfectants because of their rapid bactericidal action against vegetative bacteria, fungi, and many viruses. • They do not kill bacterial endospores. • Quick dipping of instruments generally does not offer sufficient exposure time for proper disinfection. • Typical effective concentrations for alcohol disinfectants are around 70%, not 10%.

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While alcohols are effective as disinfectants, they do not eliminate bacterial endospores, which are much more resistant structures. However, dipping small instruments in ethanol for a few seconds can indeed provide effective disinfection, given proper contact time. Ethanol and isopropanol are among the most commonly used agents, particularly in healthcare settings, due to their effectiveness at killing a wide range of pathogens when used at appropriate concentrations (usually around \( 70 \% \) for optimal results). A common mistake when using alcohols is assuming that higher concentrations are always better; actually, 70% solutions are more effective at penetrating cell walls than 100% alcohol. Another tip is to ensure that the surfaces or instruments remain wet with the alcohol for an adequate amount of time to enhance microbial kill efficacy.

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