Infection Control · single question
What is the INITIAL step for disinfecting an alginate impression before sending it to the laboratory?
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Correct answer: B. Rinse with water to remove blood and debris
- A. Dry disinfectant powder is not an appropriate impression disinfection method.
- B. Correct. The FIRST step in impression disinfection is always to RINSE the impression with water to remove blood, saliva, and debris. Only then can a disinfectant work effectively, as organic matter can inactivate disinfecting agents. After rinsing: spray with an ADA-approved disinfectant, wrap in moist towel, seal in a bag.
- C. Glutaraldehyde is used for high-level disinfection but is not the first step — you must remove organic debris first.
- D. Immersion in iodophor may distort hydrophilic alginate — moreover, rinsing comes first.
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