Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC) Practice Exam 2025 – Your All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The first step in the cleaning process of contaminated objects is to rinse the contaminated objects with cold water. This initial rinse helps to remove visible debris and reduces the microbial load on the surface before any soap or detergents are applied. By starting with cold water, you can dislodge and remove various contaminants, effectively preparing the surface for more thorough cleaning with soap or cleaning agents.

In cleaning protocols, this preliminary step is crucial, as it sets the foundation for effective decontamination. Following this step, the use of soap and warm water or mechanical scrubbing typically occurs to further clean the object.

The other choices, while important in the overall cleaning process, do not represent the initial step. Washing with soap and warm water, drying, or using a brush all follow the essential first action of rinsing contaminated objects to ensure that the cleaning process is effective and thorough.