NaOCl Safety — ORE Part 1 MCQ

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EasyEndodonticsNaOCl SafetyORE Part 1

During endodontic treatment, sodium hypochlorite irrigant is spilled onto a patient's clothing. Which property of sodium hypochlorite makes this a concern?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — It acts as an oxidising bleach that can permanently decolourise fabric

**A is correct.** Sodium hypochlorite is the active chemical in bleach. Its oxidising action can chemically alter textile dyes, causing decolourisation that may be permanent; this is why even a small spill on clothing is clinically relevant and protective draping is important. Sodium hypochlorite can also irritate or damage biological tissue after contact, reinforcing the need to prevent spills. **B** is wrong because NaOCl removes colour rather than acting as a temporary dye. **C** is wrong because fabric cannot develop an allergic response. **D** is not the principal hazard: odour alone does not explain the potential clothing damage. **E** is incorrect because hypochlorite is chemically reactive, not inert.

Reference: Goffin VG, Piérard GE, Henry F, et al. Sodium hypochlorite, bleaching agents, and the stratum corneum. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. 1997. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9378085/