According to Spaulding's Classification of Medical Devices, which type comes into contact with normal sterile areas of the body?

In Spaulding's Classification of Medical Devices, critical items are defined as those that come into contact with sterile areas of the body, such as surgical equipment designed for invasive procedures. These devices must be sterile to prevent infections and ensure patient safety, as they directly enter the vascular system or sterile body cavities.

The classification identifies three categories: non-critical items, which come into contact with intact skin; semi-critical items, which touch mucous membranes or non-intact skin; and critical items, which touch sterile tissue or the vascular system. This hierarchy emphasizes the increasing risk of infection associated with each category. Therefore, understanding that critical items require strict sterilization is essential for effective infection control in healthcare settings.