Cleaning and disinfecting should include

• wearing required PPE
• selecting products and equipment
• following standard procedures for cleaning and disinfecting appropriate to species, disease risk, and facility guidelines
• ensuring the cleaning of all surfaces (top, bottom, front, back, and sides) of cages and kennels and equipment, including latches, hinges, and hard‑to‑reach areas.

Teacher Resource: Keep It Clean: Infection Control and Biosecurity in Veterinary Medicine by the Numbers, AAHA

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why is it essential to clean and disinfect a cage or kennel after each use?
• Why should animals not be put in cages or kennels that have not been cleaned since last use?
• Why should items in the cage be cleaned in addition to the cage itself?
• Why is it critical to read labels on disinfectants prior to use to ensure patient safety?
• Why should an examination table be sanitized between each use?
• What are some problems a facility may encounter if sanitation is ignored?
• Why is it important to routinely wipe down exam room walls and baseboards?