International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

What is the primary difference between disinfecting and sterilization?

1. Disinfecting targets visible dirt; sterilization does not

2. Disinfecting kills some germs; sterilization kills all germs

3. Disinfecting is done manually; sterilization is done mechanically

4. Disinfecting only applies to surfaces; sterilization applies to instruments

The correct answer is: Disinfecting kills some germs; sterilization kills all germs

The primary difference between disinfecting and sterilization lies in the level of germicidal activity. Disinfecting is designed to kill a significant number of disease-causing microorganisms on surfaces or objects, but it does not necessarily eliminate all pathogens. This process is focused on reducing the number of germs to a level that is not harmful to health. Sterilization, on the other hand, is a more rigorous process that aims to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. This complete destruction of microorganisms is critical in environments such as healthcare facilities, where the risk of infection must be minimized. Understanding this distinction is essential for effectively controlling infection and ensuring that proper procedures are followed when cleaning various environments.