Which of the following is classified as a high-level disinfectant?

High-level disinfectants are capable of destroying most bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and can even eliminate some bacterial spores. This makes them suitable for use on items that cannot be heat-sterilized but still require a high level of disinfection, such as certain medical instruments.

Glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydes fit this classification because they have well-documented efficacy against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including spores at the appropriate concentrations and exposure times. They are commonly used in the healthcare setting for disinfecting semi-critical items, such as flexible endoscopes, which require high-level disinfection.

On the other hand, while alcohol, chlorine, and hydrogen peroxide can have varying disinfectant properties, they are not classified as high-level disinfectants under all circumstances. Alcohol is generally considered an intermediate-level disinfectant and is effective against bacteria and some viruses but not reliable against spores. Chlorine is typically used as a disinfectant as well, but its effectiveness largely depends on concentration and conditions. Hydrogen peroxide is also used for disinfection; however, it primarily functions as an intermediate-level disinfectant unless used at higher concentrations specifically formulated for high-level disinfection.

Therefore, glutaraldehyde and ortho-phthalaldehydes