This is a solution used in hospitals. After how many days will you change this solution?

AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Applied Microbiology & Infection control

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Delhi NO- 2019

Explanation

The image shows chemical sterilization using activated glutaraldehyde, a high-level disinfectant for heat-sensitive instruments.
Once activated by adding a buffer, the solution's chemical stability is limited, and its effectiveness declines over time.
The standard recommended reuse period for most activated 2% glutaraldehyde solutions is 14 days.
After 14 days, polymerization significantly reduces the solution's microbicidal activity, making it unreliable for ensuring sterility or high-level disinfection.

Option A: This is an unnecessarily short period for standard activated glutaraldehyde, leading to increased costs and waste without a corresponding benefit in efficacy.
Option B: While correct for some specific products, it is not the most common or traditional standard for activated 2% glutaraldehyde, which is what is generally tested in nursing exams.
Option D: This is not a standard manufacturer-recommended or guideline-supported reuse interval for any common formulation of glutaraldehyde.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Chemical Sterilization and Disinfection as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Adhering to the 14-day replacement schedule is critical for infection control and patient safety. Using an expired solution can lead to the transmission of pathogens via improperly disinfected instruments, causing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).
Nurses must be aware of the occupational hazards of glutaraldehyde, including respiratory and skin irritation. Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and working in a well-ventilated area are mandatory.
What if? If a chemical test strip indicates the glutaraldehyde concentration has fallen below the minimum effective concentration (MEC) on day 10, the nurse must discard the solution immediately, regardless of the 14-day expiry date.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the image to identify the clinical procedure. The image shows instruments soaking in a chemical bath, which indicates chemical disinfection or sterilization.
Identify the likely chemical agent. The green color is a classic indicator of activated glutaraldehyde (a common brand is Cidex).
Recall the standard infection control protocols associated with this agent. The question specifically asks for the replacement interval or reuse life.
Access your knowledge about the shelf life of common chemical sterilants. The standard for activated 2% glutaraldehyde is 14 days.
Compare this standard with the given options and select the one that matches. In this case, 14 days is a direct match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 1397-1399