A semi-critical infectious device requires what type of disinfection after each use?

A semi-critical infectious device requires intermediate to high-level disinfection after each use due to its exposure to mucous membranes or non-intact skin. This level of disinfection is necessary to eliminate a wide range of pathogens, including mycobacteria, viruses, and fungi, while ensuring that any organisms that might pose a risk to patients are effectively killed.

Intermediate disinfection is typically applied when the device is used on surfaces that may come into contact with the patient in a way that could potentially introduce pathogens. High-level disinfection would further ensure that even more resistant organisms are dealt with, particularly in settings where there is a higher risk of infection.

In contrast, low-level disinfection would not be sufficient for semi-critical devices since it does not reliably kill all pathogens, particularly more resistant forms, and sterilization, while thorough, is not necessary for semi-critical devices that do not penetrate sterile tissues or the vascular system. Therefore, the correct practice for handling semi-critical items is to apply intermediate to high-level disinfection to ensure patient safety.