Which type of cleaning is aimed at preventing a high risk of infection?

The correct choice is focused on the concept of infection control and the effectiveness of different cleaning methods. Intermediate Level Disinfection is specifically designed to reduce the risk of infection from a wide range of pathogens, including some bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it suitable for surfaces that may be contaminated with potentially infectious materials.

In clinical settings, Intermediate Level Disinfection is used on non-critical items that come into contact with intact skin or mucous membranes. It generally involves the use of chemical agents that can kill many organisms but may not completely eliminate spores. This makes it effective for routine cleaning in areas where there is a moderate risk of infection transmission, such as during patient care in healthcare facilities.

In contrast, Low Level Disinfection is typically used for cleaning surfaces and instruments that do not have a significant risk of transmitting infections, while High Level Disinfection offers a more advanced cleaning process for semi-critical items but does not achieve complete sterilization. Sterilization, on the other hand, is the most rigorous process because it kills all microorganisms, including spores, but is not always necessary for all types of surfaces.

Understanding these distinctions helps in implementing appropriate infection control measures to protect patient health and reduce infection risks in healthcare environments.