RN Exam Practice
Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 1467 of 2368

Which statement about disinfection and sterilization is correct?

  1. Skin can be disinfected but cannot be sterilized
  2. Disinfection destroys all spores and viruses
  3. Sterilization with chemicals is safe to use on skin
  4. Sterilization is used only on the environment and never on equipment
Show answer

Correct answer: Skin can be disinfected but cannot be sterilized

Sterilization methods are too harsh for skin, so skin can only be disinfected.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Infection: Disinfection and Sterilization. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026