Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

What does decontamination specifically refer to?

1. The removal of blood and other potentially infectious materials from surfaces

2. The disposal of sharps and hazardous waste

3. The process of sterilizing medical instruments

4. The treatment of infectious waste

The correct answer is: The removal of blood and other potentially infectious materials from surfaces

Decontamination specifically refers to the process of removing blood and other potentially infectious materials from surfaces, which encompasses activities that reduce the risk of infection and contamination. This is a crucial process in healthcare settings to protect patients and staff from exposure to harmful pathogens. Decontamination focuses on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces to ensure they are safe for use, which is vital in maintaining a safe environment. While the other choices involve important aspects of healthcare safety and waste management, they do not accurately define decontamination. For instance, the disposal of sharps and hazardous waste pertains to the safe handling and discarding of potentially dangerous materials, which is distinct from the cleaning process. The sterilization of medical instruments is a more rigorous process that eliminates all forms of microbial life, which goes beyond simple decontamination. Treating infectious waste involves managing and processing waste that poses a biological risk but is not synonymous with decontaminating surfaces. Thus, identifying decontamination with the removal and cleaning of potentially infectious materials captures its essence and primary function in infection control.