Which item is considered non-critical when regarding infection control?

Infection control protocols classify items based on the risk of transmitting infectious agents. Non-critical items are those that come into contact with the skin but do not penetrate it or come into contact with mucous membranes. Bed linens fall into this category because they are used by patients, and while they can harbor pathogens, they primarily come into contact with the outer skin and are cleaned and sanitized through laundering.

Instruments used for surgery and dental procedures are considered critical because they come into direct contact with sterile tissues or the vascular system, thus posing a higher risk for infection if not properly sterilized. Gloves, while they provide a barrier to prevent contamination during various procedures, are also not classified as non-critical items since they are considered personal protective equipment that must be changed frequently to avoid cross-contamination. Understanding these classifications is essential in maintaining effective infection control practices in healthcare settings.