Plastic-wrapped packs can be stored safely for one year. High-level disinfection is used for instruments that come into contact with mucous membranes. The solution used in disinfection should be prepared according to the manufacturer's directions. Only 2 percent glutaraldehyde is approved for use in hospitals. Low-level disinfection is appropriate for instruments that do not touch mucous membranes, such as bedpans, table tops and blood pressure cuffs.
Antiseptics are chemical agents used on the skin or tissue.
These include isopropyl alcohol, chlorhexidine gluconate, iodine and iodophors. Alcohol is the preferred skin preparation for immunizations and venipuncture for blood collection. Most skin preparation agents should be allowed to dry to ensure that surface bacteria are killed. Tincture of iodine, which is active on contact, is the preferred skin preparation for invasive procedures, such as insertion of catheters. Contamination of antiseptics has been associated with outbreaks of infections and false-positive findings on blood culture.