What is the appropriate method for cleaning an operating room after a procedure?

• A. Disinfecting the Back Table and Mayo Stand While the Patient Emerges
• B. Starting at the Center of the Room and Working Toward the Perimeter
• C. Starting at the Top and Working Toward the Bottom
• D. Flooding Horizontal Surfaces with Alcohol

Answer: (C)

Cleaning the operating room after a procedure is best done from top to bottom. Starting with the highest surfaces—ceiling, light fixtures, walls, and other high fixtures—prevents any dirt or disinfectant runoff from landing on surfaces that have already been cleaned. By moving downward to equipment, work surfaces, and finally the floor, you minimize the chance of recontaminating cleaned areas and ensure a thorough disinfection. This sequence also fits with the way contaminants tend to settle in a room, making the process efficient and safer for the next case.

Other approaches aren’t as effective: disinfecting while the patient is still in the room can pose safety and timing concerns and risk cross-contamination; starting in the center and moving outward can push contaminants into areas already cleaned; and flooding horizontal surfaces with alcohol is inappropriate for complete, safe OR disinfection due to flammability and improper use.