Preventing Disease Spread in Healthcare Facilities

Which support services worker disinfects patient care areas to prevent the spread of disease-causing microorganisms?

A. environmental services worker

B. biomedical engineer

C. central sterile supply worker

D. healthcare administrator

E. biomedical equipment technician

Final answer: OPTION A.

Answer:

Environmental services workers disinfect patient care areas to prevent disease spread, whereas antiseptics are used on tissues for microbial control.

An environmental services worker is responsible for disinfecting patient care areas to prevent the spread of disease-causing microorganisms. This role is essential in maintaining hygiene and controlling infections within healthcare facilities. They ensure that the spaces are not only physically clean but also sanitized to reduce the prevalence of pathogens that could potentially cause harm to patients, visitors, and healthcare staff.

Regarding the substance suitable for microbial control on tissues to prevent infection, the correct answer is antiseptic. Antiseptics are substances used on living tissues and skin to reduce the possibility of infection, sepsis, or putrefaction. Unlike disinfectants, which are used on non-living surfaces to destroy microorganisms, antiseptics must be safe enough for use on the skin and other tissues.

Hand washing is highlighted by microbiologists as the most effective measure to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses because it removes microbes that are present on various surfaces that we commonly touch.