High-level disinfectants have which characteristic regarding spores?

• A. They may not eradicate high concentrations of bacterial spores
• B. They sterilize all pathogens
• C. They only kill viruses
• D. They are the same as low-level disinfectants

Answer: (A)

High-level disinfectants are designed to inactivate a broad range of microorganisms, including many bacteria, viruses, fungi, and some spores. But their ability to destroy spores isn’t guaranteed if the spore load is very high or conditions aren’t optimal. Sterilization, which is a separate process, aims to destroy all microorganisms, including all spores, under defined conditions. That’s why high-level disinfectants aren’t considered sterilants. They do more than kill viruses and are not the same as low-level disinfectants.