Which of the following best explains why employees should use a disinfectant when cleaning up a surface contaminated by blood?

• A. To eliminate potential pathogens and reduce the risk of disease transmission
• B. To remove visible dirt and debris from the surface
• C. To prevent staining of the surface by blood
• D. To neutralize unpleasant odors caused by blood

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of using a disinfectant: Disinfectants are chemical agents designed to kill or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
2. Recognize that blood can contain potential pathogens such as viruses (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B and C) and bacteria that pose a risk of disease transmission.
3. Identify that simply removing visible dirt or debris does not guarantee the elimination of these pathogens, as microorganisms can remain on the surface even if it looks clean.
4. Acknowledge that preventing staining or neutralizing odors are not the primary reasons for using disinfectants in this context; the main goal is to reduce the risk of infection.
5. Conclude that the best explanation for using a disinfectant on blood-contaminated surfaces is to eliminate potential pathogens and thereby reduce the risk of disease transmission.