ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which of the following guidelines is appropriate for cleaning contaminated objects or surfaces?

1. Clean from the top down

2. Clean from the least contaminated to the most contaminated areas

3. Clean in a vertical motion

4. Clean from the center outwards

The correct answer is: Clean from the least contaminated to the most contaminated areas

Cleaning from the least contaminated to the most contaminated areas is an essential guideline because it helps to prevent the spread of pathogens and contaminants. This approach minimizes the risk of transferring microorganisms from dirtier surfaces to cleaner ones. By starting with the areas that are less contaminated, you reduce the risk of cross-contamination and ensure that the more heavily contaminated areas are tackled last, which is critical in environments like healthcare where preventing infection is paramount. In contrast, cleaning from the top down may leave contaminants on surfaces that will be cleaned later, potentially leading to recontamination. Cleaning in a vertical motion does not specifically address the need to manage contamination levels and may not be the most effective method in terms of thoroughness. Cleaning from the center outwards could also lead to spreading contaminants rather than containing them, making it less effective than the chosen guideline. Therefore, the recommended practice of moving from least to most contaminated ensures a more effective and safe cleaning process.