American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) Phlebotomy Practice Exam

What is the recommended disinfectant for blood and other bodily fluids?

1. Alcohol Swabs

2. Sodium Hypochlorite

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

4. Chlorhexidine

The correct answer is: Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is widely recognized as an effective disinfectant for blood and other bodily fluids due to its strong antimicrobial properties, particularly when diluted to a specific concentration. This compound is best known in its use as bleach and is capable of inactivating a broad range of pathogens, including viruses and bacteria that may be present in bodily fluids. This makes it ideal for use in healthcare settings where the risk of exposure to infectious materials is high. When dealing with spills of blood or other potentially infectious materials, using a sodium hypochlorite solution helps ensure that the area is properly disinfected, providing a safer environment for both healthcare workers and patients. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations recommend sodium hypochlorite for this purpose, specifically highlighting the importance of using a concentration that is effective for disinfection while also being safe for surfaces and equipment. In contrast, while alcohol swabs, hydrogen peroxide, and chlorhexidine have their own uses in disinfection, they may not be as effective as sodium hypochlorite against all pathogens in the context of blood and bodily fluid cleanup. Alcohol is often used for skin antisepsis rather than environmental disinfection, and hydrogen peroxide can be less effective against certain viruses