Glutaraldehyde formulations are intended for semi-critical devices that require?

Glutaraldehyde formulations are specifically designed for high-level disinfection, which is required for semi-critical devices. Semi-critical devices are those that come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin but do not penetrate sterile tissue. These devices require a higher level of disinfection than non-critical items, which may only need low-level disinfection.

High-level disinfection effectively reduces the number of viable microorganisms on the surface of the semi-critical devices to a level that is considered safe for use on mucous membranes. Glutaraldehyde works by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes of a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it appropriate for the intended purpose.

In contrast, sterilization is a process that eliminates all forms of microbial life, including spores, and is typically reserved for critical devices that come into contact with sterile tissues. Low-level disinfection does not achieve the same level of microbial reduction and is suitable only for non-critical items, while sanitization refers to reducing the microbial count to safe levels but does not guarantee high-level disinfection required for semi-critical devices. Therefore, using glutaraldehyde ensures that semi-critical equipment is adequately disinfected before use.