OSMT (Ontario Society of Medical Technologists) Practice Exam

Phenolics are routinely used for:

1. a. sterilizing surgical equipment

2. b. disinfecting skin

3. c. floors and counters

4. d. wounds

The correct answer is: c. floors and counters

Phenolics are commonly used for disinfecting surfaces such as floors and counters due to their effective antimicrobial properties. They are particularly well-suited for inanimate surfaces in healthcare and industrial settings, where the risk of infection must be managed. Their ability to destroy a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi makes them a reliable choice for maintaining cleanliness in environments where hygiene is crucial. While phenolics can also have applications in other areas, such as disinfecting skin or sterilizing surgical equipment, their particular formulation and concentration make them better suited for use on hard surfaces rather than on living tissues or instruments meant for invasive procedures. This specification allows them to be effectively deployed in maintaining general environmental hygiene rather than in clinical preparation or skincare. Thus, their primary routine use is aligned with disinfecting floors and counters to ensure infection control in various settings.