This table includes reprocessing information, but always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for use. For information on cleaning particular equipment such as IT equipment and patient lifts, see Best Practice Recommendations.
| Spaulding's Classification | Type of Contact | Reprocessing Level Required | Reprocessing Agents or Methods (currently available in Canada) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Critical | Sterile body tissue or cavity |
Sterilization In Alberta, heat-tolerant critical devices must be steam sterilizedInactivates:
|
|
| Semi-critical | Mucous membranes or non-intact skin |
High Level disinfection (HLD) at a minimum; devices should be sterilized if possible. Steam sterilization is preferred for heat tolerant devices. Inactivates:
|
|
| Non-critical | Intact skin or no direct patient contact |
Intermediate or low-level disinfection Intermediate level disinfectants inactivate:
Low level disinfection inactivates:
|
Intermediate level disinfectants
Low level disinfectants
|
