Which type of item requires high-level disinfection?

High-level disinfection is necessary for semi-critical items because these items come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin, requiring a high level of microbial inactivation to prevent infection. Semi-critical items may include dental mirrors, impression trays, and other instruments that are not considered critical but still pose a risk of transmitting infections if not properly disinfected.

Critical items, which penetrate soft tissue or bone, require sterilization due to their direct involvement in invasive procedures and the higher risk of infection associated with their use. Non-critical items, such as dental chairs and light handles, generally require only low-level disinfection because they come into contact with intact skin rather than mucous membranes or non-intact skin.

Thus, semi-critical items are the category that requires high-level disinfection to ensure patient safety by eliminating potentially harmful microorganisms while avoiding the more stringent requirements needed for critical items.