DecontaminationQuestion 27 of 100
Why should the lid of an ultrasonic cleaner remain closed while the unit is running?
a.To maintain the water temperature required for thermal disinfection
b.To prevent the detergent from evaporating and changing concentration
c.To contain the contaminated aerosols that the cavitation process releases into the air
d.To keep instruments from floating out of the basket
Explanation
Cavitation drives contaminated droplets off the solution surface, so keeping the lid closed protects staff and the room air from aerosolized bioburden. Ultrasonic cleaners do not perform thermal disinfection. Evaporation and floating instruments are minor operational issues, not the safety-driven reason for the closed lid.
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