What medical device typically requires a higher level of disinfection?

Endoscopes are medical devices that usually require a higher level of disinfection because they are classified as semi-critical items according to the Spaulding classification system. This classification is based on the risk of infection transmission associated with the use of the device. Semi-critical items come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin and thus require high-level disinfection or sterilization to ensure they do not introduce pathogens into the body.

In contrast, other options, such as scissors and thermometers, may not require the same level of disinfection, as they are either classified as non-critical or lower-risk items that can undergo lower levels of cleaning or disinfecting. Bandages, being a sterile product that is applied to a wound, do not require disinfection of the same level since they are typically single-use and meant to be applied directly without the need for high-level disinfection processes.

Therefore, endoscopes necessitate stringent disinfection protocols due to their direct involvement with patient mucosal surfaces, highlighting the critical nature of proper reprocessing practices in healthcare to prevent infections.