California Phlebotomy Certification Practice Exam

Which solution is appropriate for cleaning a cerebral spinal specimen spill?

1. Hydrogen peroxide

2. Rubbing alcohol

3. Chlorine bleach

4. Soap and water

The correct answer is: Chlorine bleach

The appropriate solution for cleaning a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimen spill is chlorine bleach. This choice is correct because chlorine bleach is a potent disinfectant that is effective in killing a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses that may be present in contaminated biological fluids. When dealing with biohazardous spills, especially those involving body fluids like CSF, it's crucial to use a disinfectant that can effectively neutralize infectious agents to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and prevent cross-contamination. In addition to its strong disinfecting capabilities, chlorine bleach is often recommended in healthcare settings for cleaning surfaces that have been contaminated with potentially infectious materials. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure proper dilution, typically using a 1:10 dilution for disinfection purposes. The other options listed are not suitable for effectively cleaning a CSF spill. Hydrogen peroxide may have some disinfecting properties but is generally not as effective against a broad range of pathogens as chlorine bleach in this context. Rubbing alcohol, while useful for sanitizing skin and some surfaces, is not recommended for high-risk spills due to its lower efficacy against certain pathogens. Soap and water, though effective for general cleaning, do not provide the necessary disinfecting action required in the case