Microbiology

A chest physician performs bronchoscopy in the procedure room of the out patient depament. To make the instrument safe for use in the next patient waiting outside, the most appropriate method to disinfect the endoscope is by –

Name: A chest physician performs bronchoscopy in the procedure room of the out patient depament. To make the instrument safe for use in the next patient waiting outside, the most appropriate method to disinfect the endoscope is by –
Creator: Medical MCQ
Published: 2024-04-10T15:55:10+05:30
Keywords: Microbiology

💡 Explanation

**Core Concept**
Gluteraldehyde is a high-level disinfectant used for sterilizing medical instruments, including endoscopes, that cannot be heat sterilized or are damaged by heat. It is effective against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
2% glutaraldehyde is the most appropriate method to disinfect the endoscope because it is a high-level disinfectant that kills a wide range of microorganisms, including bacterial spores. The recommended contact time for glutaraldehyde disinfection is typically 20-45 minutes, depending on the concentration and the type of instrument being disinfected. In this case, the 20-minute contact time is sufficient to ensure that the endoscope is thoroughly disinfected and safe for use in the next patient.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** 70% alcohol for 5 min is not sufficient to disinfect an endoscope because it is a low-level disinfectant that may not kill bacterial spores, which are highly resistant to disinfection. Additionally, the 5-minute contact time is too short to ensure thorough disinfection.

**Option C:** 2% formaldehyde for 10 min is not recommended for endoscope disinfection because formaldehyde is a toxic gas that can be hazardous to users and requires specialized ventilation systems. Furthermore, formaldehyde is not as effective as glutaraldehyde against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.

**Option D:** 1% sodium hypochlorite for 15 min is not suitable for endoscope disinfection because sodium hypochlorite can damage the rubber and plastic components of the endoscope, and it may not be effective against bacterial spores.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When disinfecting endoscopes, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommended contact times to ensure effective disinfection and prevent damage to the instrument. Additionally, always use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling disinfectants to prevent exposure and potential harm.

**✓ Correct Answer: B. 2% glutaraldehyde for 20 min**

✓ Correct Answer: B. 2% glutaraldehyde for 20 min

A chest physician performs bronchoscopy in the procedure room of the out patient depament. To make the instrument safe for use in the next patient waiting outside, the most appropriate method to disinfect the endoscope is by –

A chest physician performs bronchoscopy in the procedure room of the out patient depament. To make the instrument safe for use in the next patient waiting outside, the most appropriate method to disinfect the endoscope is by –

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