Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide for Exam Success

Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach, is widely recognized as an effective disinfectant in healthcare settings. It is favored for its powerful antimicrobial properties, which enable it to eliminate a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The strength of sodium hypochlorite lies in its ability to disinfect surfaces and items contaminated with blood or other bodily fluids, making it a crucial part of infection control protocols.

In addition to its efficacy, sodium hypochlorite's use is regulated, and it is available in various concentrations to suit different disinfection needs. Healthcare facilities often rely on it to properly sanitize environments, particularly in areas where the risk of healthcare-associated infections is a concern.

While hydrogen peroxide, isopropyl alcohol, and ethyl alcohol are also effective disinfectants, they are typically used in more specific contexts or for particular applications. Hydrogen peroxide is often used for surface disinfection and has some sporicidal effects. Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used for skin antisepsis and cleaning small instruments due to its rapid evaporation and effectiveness against many bacteria and viruses. Ethyl alcohol is similarly used primarily for hand sanitizers and surface cleaning. However, sodium hypochlorite remains the go-to disinfectant in