What is the cleaning requirement for non-critical items if they are visibly contaminated?

The correct answer is intermediate-level disinfection. Non-critical items, which are those that do not penetrate mucous membranes and come into contact only with skin, require a certain level of cleaning and disinfection to ensure safety and prevent infection. When these items are visibly contaminated, they cannot just be wiped down; they must undergo intermediate-level disinfection.

Intermediate-level disinfection is effective in eliminating a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and some fungi. This process typically involves using chemical agents that are stronger than low-level disinfectants but not as potent as high-level disinfectants. The purpose of this requirement is to address the risk presented by visible contamination, as such items could potentially harbor infectious agents.

In contrast, low-level disinfection would not be sufficient in this scenario, as it typically does not eliminate spores and certain resistant viruses, which might still be present if the item is visibly contaminated. High-level disinfection, while more rigorous, is reserved for semi-critical items that do come into contact with mucous membranes. Finally, stating that no cleaning is required would contradict the established protocols for maintaining a safe clinical environment, especially when dealing with visibly soiled items.