PSI Texas State Board Nail Tech practice exam

Which disinfectant is appropriate for stopping the takeover of the host cell's reproductive function?

1. Bactericidal.

2. Fungicidal.

3. Virucidal.

4. Sporicidal.

The correct answer is: Virucidal.

The correct answer is virucidal because virucidal disinfectants are specifically designed to inactivate or destroy viruses, thereby preventing them from attaching to and taking over the host cell’s reproductive functions. Viruses invade host cells to replicate, and a virucidal agent disrupts this process by targeting the virus directly, rendering it unable to infect and replicate within the host. In contrast, bactericidal disinfectants target bacteria, not viruses, making them ineffective against viral infections. Fungicidal agents specifically deal with fungi and do not affect bacterium or viruses. Sporicidal disinfectants target spores, which are resistant forms of bacteria or fungi, but again would not address viral concerns. Thus, virucidal agents are the proper choice when the goal is to prevent viruses from taking over host cells.