Which of the following is most prone to biofilm accumulation?

• A. Indwelling medical devices such as catheters
• B. Freshly autoclaved surgical instruments
• C. Sterile glassware stored in sealed cabinets
• D. Dry, non-porous plastic surfaces in clean rooms

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand what a biofilm is: a biofilm is a structured community of microbial cells enclosed in a self-produced polymeric matrix that adheres to surfaces.
2. Recognize that biofilms form more readily on surfaces that provide moisture, nutrients, and a suitable environment for microbial attachment and growth.
3. Evaluate each option based on its likelihood to support microbial colonization and biofilm formation: indwelling medical devices (like catheters) are often moist, in contact with bodily fluids, and provide a surface for microbes to attach.
4. Consider that freshly autoclaved surgical instruments and sterile glassware are initially free of microbes and stored in conditions that minimize contamination, making biofilm formation unlikely.
5. Note that dry, non-porous plastic surfaces in clean rooms are designed to be clean and dry, which inhibits microbial growth and biofilm accumulation.