Selection of Disinfection or Sterilization

Level of

Disinfection

or Sterilization

Needed

Definition

Procedure Needed

Goal

Example

Critical devices

Instruments or objects introduced directly into the body either through the bloodstream or sterile areas of the body

Sterilization High risk of transmission of infection

Kill all microorganisms including spores

Surgical instruments, needles, transfer forceps, inner surfaces of heart-lung machine, blood oxygenators, and blood compartments of hemodialyzers

Semicritical devices

Contact intact mucous membranes or non-intact skin

Sterilization, if possible, or at a minimum, meticulous physical cleaning and high-level disinfection

All microorganisms except large number of spores

Noninvasive, flexible and rigid fiberoptic endoscopes, endotrachael and aspirator tubes, bronchoscopes, laryngoscopes, respiratory therapy equipment, cystoscopes, vaginal specula, and urinary catheters

Non-critical devices

Contact only intact skin

Detergent and warm water

Removal of pathogenic organisms

Surgical facemasks, blood pressure cuffs, neurologic and cardiac diagnostic electrodes, surfaces of radiology machines

Environmental surfaces

Surfaces that usually do not contact patients or if do, only intact skin

Soap and water

Germicidal detergent

Soap and water, followed by low to intermediate-level disinfection

Water and detergent, or a hospital-grade disinfectant-detergent designed for housekeeping

Removal of pathogenic organisms

Medical equipment surfaces

Housekeeping surfaces