Which of the following methods best ensures that pathogens are reduced to safe levels on surfaces in a healthcare setting?

• A. Antisepsis
• B. Degerming
• C. Disinfection
• D. Sanitization

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of each method mentioned: Antisepsis, Degerming, Disinfection, and Sanitization.
2. Step 2: Recognize that Antisepsis refers to the use of chemical agents on living tissues to reduce the number of microbes, but it is not typically used on inanimate surfaces.
3. Step 3: Know that Degerming is the mechanical removal of microbes from a limited area, such as washing hands, but it does not necessarily kill all pathogens on surfaces.
4. Step 4: Identify that Disinfection involves the use of chemical agents on inanimate objects to destroy or inhibit most pathogenic microorganisms, effectively reducing pathogens to safe levels on surfaces.
5. Step 5: Understand that Sanitization reduces microbial numbers to safe public health levels but may not eliminate all pathogens, making Disinfection the best method for ensuring safety on healthcare surfaces.