Which organism must an approved disinfectant pass potency tests against?

An approved disinfectant must demonstrate its efficacy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa due to this organism's notable resilience and ability to survive in a variety of environmental conditions. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common opportunistic pathogen, particularly in healthcare settings, and is known for its resistance to many antibiotics and disinfectants. This characteristic makes it a significant challenge in infection control practices.

When disinfectants are tested for potency, they are often evaluated against certain standard organisms, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being one of the key indicators. A disinfectant that is effective against this bacterium is likely to possess a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity, making it suitable for use in environments where infection prevention is critical.

The other organisms listed may be relevant in different contexts of infection control or specific scenarios, but for the purpose of regulatory approval and general use in disinfectants, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a critical benchmark due to its clinical significance and resistance profiles. This makes the organism a standard consideration in the efficacy testing of disinfectants.