Which is a characteristic of high-level disinfection?

A characteristic of high-level disinfection is that it requires FDA-registered chemical sterilants. High-level disinfection involves the use of specific chemicals that are effective in eliminating a wide range of microorganisms, including bacterial spores, which may not be fully inactivated by lower-level disinfection methods. These chemical agents are carefully regulated for safety and efficacy by the FDA, ensuring that they meet stringent standards for their intended use in medical and dental settings.

This process is particularly important in environments where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial for patient safety, such as in dental practices. The proper use of these disinfectants effectively minimizes the risk of infection transmission between patients and healthcare providers. High-level disinfection is often employed for items that can't withstand the rigors of heat sterilization due to their materials.