What type of items typically require high-level disinfection rather than sterilization?

High-level disinfection is primarily required for heat-sensitive semi-critical items that come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin but do not penetrate sterile tissue. These items may include instruments such as endoscopes or respiratory therapy equipment that cannot withstand the high temperatures of sterilization methods.

In contrast, items classified as critical, such as surgical instruments that penetrate sterile tissues, must undergo sterilization to eliminate all microorganisms, including spores, as they pose the highest risk for infection if contaminated.

Non-critical items, which contact only intact skin, require only low-level disinfection, while disposable items are designed for single use and do not require disinfection or sterilization after use, as they are discarded. Therefore, heat-sensitive semi-critical items are specifically designed to be disinfected at a high level to ensure safety without compromising their integrity.