In the healthcare world, cleanliness and sterilization are crucial. One important component of this process is the use of disinfectants. However, did you know that not all disinfectants are created equal? There are various types of disinfectants; one of the most effective is the high-level disinfectant. So, what exactly is the difference between high-level disinfectants and other disinfectants? Let's delve deeper.
- Types of Disinfectants
Disinfectants can be categorized based on their effectiveness in killing microorganisms. Here are the three main categories:
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Low-Level Disinfectant:
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Effectiveness: Can kill most bacteria, some viruses, and fungi, but is not effective against bacterial spores.
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Usage: Suitable for cleaning surfaces that do not come into direct contact with patients, such as floors and walls.
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Examples: Household cleaning solutions, and antibacterial soaps.
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Intermediate-Level Disinfectant:
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Effectiveness: Stronger than low-level disinfectants, capable of killing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mycobacterium tuberculosis, but still not effective against bacterial spores.
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Usage: Used for cleaning frequently touched surfaces, such as tables and non-critical medical equipment.
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Examples: 70% alcohol solutions, and hydrogen peroxide solutions.
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High-Level Disinfectant:
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Effectiveness: Highly effective in killing almost all microorganisms, including bacterial spores, viruses, and fungi.
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Usage: Used for sterilizing medical equipment that comes into direct contact with body tissues or fluids, such as endoscopes and surgical instruments.
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- Examples: Glutaraldehyde, ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA), and hydrogen peroxide plasma.
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- Key Differences Between High-Level Disinfectants and Other Disinfectants
| Criteria | Low-Level Disinfectant (LLD) | Intermediate-Level Disinfectant (ILD) | High-Level Disinfectant (HLD) |
|---|---|---|---|
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Only lipophilic viruses | Lipophilic & some hydrophilic viruses | All types of viruses |
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Only vegetative bacteria | Includes Mycobacterium tuberculosis | Includes spores under certain conditions |
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Limited | Good | Very good |
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Not effective | Not effective | Effective under certain conditions |
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General surface cleaning | Non-critical medical instruments | Semi-critical medical instruments |
4. When Should You Use High-Level Disinfectants?
HLDs are needed in the following situations:
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Sterilization of semi-critical medical instruments such as endoscopes, catheters, and surgical tools that cannot withstand heat.
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Laboratory and healthcare facilities require high-level disinfection.
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Processing equipment that comes into contact with bodily fluids, where infection risk is high.
5. Product Highlight: UMONIUM38® Series
UMONIUM38® Series is a versatile disinfectant that combines cleaning and high-level disinfection in one step, specially designed for medical instruments and surfaces. This product effectively eliminates various resistant microorganisms such as MRSA, HIV, HCV, and HBV.
With a neutral pH (7), UMONIUM38® Series is safe for operators as it is non-toxic, does not produce harmful gases, and is non-corrosive, preserving the integrity of medical equipment. Additionally, this disinfectant is environmentally friendly due to its biodegradable and eco-friendly formulation. The refreshing scent of essential oils provides a more comfortable disinfection environment.
UMONIUM38® Series is available in 1L and 5L packaging, this product is officially distributed by PT Isotekindo Intertama and is registered with the Indonesian Ministry of Health.
Features and Benefits of UMONIUM38® Series
| Feature | Benefit |
| Broad-Spectrum Effectiveness | Effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and bacterial spores. |
| Cleaning and Disinfecting Power | Removes biofilm, blood residues, and fat particles while disinfecting. |
| Ultra-Fast Action | Kills bacteria in the first minute of application, ensuring rapid disinfection. |
| Long-Lasting Protection | Forms a bacteriostatic layer on treated surfaces to prevent microbial growth. |
| Non-Corrosive | Safe for medical instruments, with a neutral pH (7) to prevent material damage. |
| Non-Toxic and Safe | Free from aldehydes, biguanides, peroxides, and formaldehyde, with no toxic vapors. |
| User-Friendly | No risk of burns or lung irritation does not require special PPE. |
| Eco-Friendly | Biodegradable and can be safely disposed of. |
| Stable Formulation | Shelf life of up to 36 months from production. |
| Certified Medical Disinfectant | ISO 13485:2016 and ISO 9001:2015 certified. |
| Convenient Packaging | 1L bottle with measuring cup and 5L gallon with pump for easy dosing. |
Conclusion
High-level disinfectants play a crucial role in sterilizing medical instruments and controlling infections. Unlike low- and intermediate-level disinfectants, HLDs can inactivate almost all types of microorganisms, including some bacterial spores. Choosing the right type of disinfectant is essential to ensuring the safety of patients, medical personnel, and the environment. By understanding these differences, we can make more informed decisions when selecting and using disinfectants for various needs.
References
- Isotekindo Intertama Product Documentation for UMONIUM38®.
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McDonnell, G., & Russell, A. D. (1999). Antiseptics and Disinfectants: Activity, Action, and Resistance. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 12(1), 147–179.
- Rutala, W. A., Weber, D. J., & the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC). (2008). Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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World Health Organization (WHO). (2016). Decontamination and Reprocessing of Medical Devices for Healthcare Facilities.
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European Committee for Standardization (CEN). (2015). EN 14885: Chemical Disinfectants and Antiseptics – Application of European Standards for Chemical Disinfectants and Antiseptics.
