Which method is commonly used for high-level disinfection?

High-level disinfection is a process that eliminates most pathogens on inanimate surfaces but may not necessarily destroy all bacterial spores. The method often used for this level of disinfection is cold sterilization with chemical agents. This approach utilizes various chemical solutions, including glutaraldehyde and other similar agents, which are effective in achieving the required level of disinfection without the need for heat.

Cold sterilization is particularly advantageous for items that may be heat-sensitive and cannot withstand high temperatures, making it a suitable choice in environments like medical and esthetic settings where maintaining the integrity of equipment is essential.

Steam cleaning, while effective at cleaning, does not achieve high-level disinfection because the temperatures and pressures are generally not sufficient to kill all pathogens. Heat sterilization at high temperatures is used for sterilization rather than disinfection, which requires the destruction of all microorganisms, including spores. Microwave irradiation is not widely recognized as a method for disinfection in medical or esthetic practices due to inconsistencies in its effectiveness against various pathogens. Thus, cold sterilization with chemical agents stands out as the standard and effective method for high-level disinfection in many professional settings.