Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which level of decontamination is applied to non-critical items?

1. Sterilization

2. Disinfection

3. Sanitation

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Sanitation

Non-critical items are those that come into contact with intact skin but do not penetrate body tissues. Examples include items like chairs, towels, and certain instruments used in esthetics. In the context of decontamination, the appropriate method for non-critical items is sanitation. Sanitation refers to the process of cleaning and reducing the microbial count on surfaces and objects to a safe level, as determined by public health standards. While disinfection and sterilization are applicable to semi-critical and critical items, respectively, non-critical items require less rigorous treatment. Disinfection is typically used for semi-critical items that come into contact with mucous membranes, and sterilization is reserved for instruments that penetrate skin or body tissues. Sanitation is thus the correct term for maintaining cleanliness and reducing health risks associated with non-critical items, making it vital for maintaining a safe environment in esthetics practices.