Preclinical DH Infection Control Training Practice Test

Biofilms are indeed communities of microorganisms that attach to surfaces and are encased in a protective matrix. This matrix typically consists of a mixture of polysaccharides, proteins, and other organic materials, which help the microorganisms adhere to one another and to the surface. The protective nature of the biofilm allows these communities to thrive in various environments, resist antimicrobial agents, and evade the immune response.

Biofilms can form on a variety of surfaces, including natural environments like rocks and plants, as well as man-made structures such as pipes, medical devices, and dental surfaces. Their formation is significant in many fields, particularly in medicine and dentistry, where biofilms are known to contribute to persistent infections and complicate treatment efforts.

The other options offered do not accurately encapsulate the definition of biofilms. While they touch on aspects of microbial growth or protective measures, they lack the specific context of biofilms as structured communities of microorganisms that self-organize and form protective matrices.