What is the process of migration of contaminants from one person, object, or location to another called?

• A. Cross Contamination
• B. Decontamination
• C. Disinfection
• D. Cycle Time

Answer: (A)

The process of migration of contaminants from one person, object, or location to another is referred to as cross contamination. This phenomenon occurs when harmful microorganisms or substances are transferred from a contaminated source to a clean one, potentially leading to infections or the spread of pathogens.

Understanding cross contamination is crucial in healthcare and surgical settings as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining strict hygiene and sterilization protocols. By preventing cross contamination, surgical instrument specialists can ensure that instruments and environments remain sterile and safe for patient use.

Decontamination is a related but distinct process that involves reducing or eliminating contaminants from surfaces or instruments, whereas disinfection specifically refers to the application of chemical agents to destroy or inactivate harmful organisms, primarily on hard surfaces. Cycle time, in this context, pertains to the duration involved in a specific process, such as the time it takes to sterilize instruments, rather than the act of transferring contaminants. Hence, the relevance and significance of cross contamination in the context of infection control make it the correct choice.