International Licensing Examination (ILE) Practice Test

Which of the following actions is considered part of cleaning?

1. Removing dust from surfaces

2. Sterilizing surgical instruments

3. Disinfecting with chemicals

4. Washing hands with soap

The correct answer is: Removing dust from surfaces

The action of removing dust from surfaces is indeed considered part of cleaning. Cleaning generally involves the physical removal of dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces to make them clean and safe. This process may include sweeping, dusting, and mopping, focusing primarily on the visible contaminants. By removing dust, you're minimizing allergens and contributing to a healthier environment. On the other hand, sterilizing surgical instruments and disinfecting with chemicals go beyond basic cleaning. Sterilization involves the elimination of all forms of microbial life, which is crucial in medical settings to prevent infections. Disinfecting, similarly, entails using chemical agents to kill specific bacteria and viruses on surfaces, which is a step further than merely cleaning. Washing hands with soap is an important hygiene practice to remove germs and prevent the spread of illnesses, but it doesn't strictly fall under the category of cleaning surfaces in the traditional sense. Each of these actions plays a vital role in overall hygiene and safety, but the act of physically removing dust aligns specifically with the definition of cleaning.