Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Certification Practice Exam 2025 - Free HSPA Practice Questions and Study Guide

The choice of 70% isopropyl alcohol as a non-sterile liquid for disinfection is well-founded due to its effectiveness against a wide range of microorganisms. Isopropyl alcohol at this concentration is known to denature proteins and disrupt cellular membranes, making it an excellent disinfectant that can be used on surfaces and tools in healthcare settings.

Additionally, 70% isopropyl alcohol is commonly preferred over higher concentrations, such as 90% alcohol, because the presence of water enhances its penetration into cells, thereby increasing its efficacy as a disinfectant. This characteristic makes it suitable for routine disinfection processes in sterile processing environments.

Other options, while also effective in their respective roles, are categorized differently. Hydrogen peroxide is typically used as a sterilant or disinfectant but can also be considered a solution for situations requiring higher concentrations or specific conditions for efficacy. Chlorhexidine primarily serves as an antiseptic for skin, rather than a surface disinfectant, and bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is often used for disinfection, but can be hazardous and requires careful handling and appropriate dilution protocols. Thus, while they are effective agents, their applications differ from that of 70% isopropyl alcohol in terms of