What can OPA be neutralized with for disposal?

The correct answer is glycine. OPA, or ortho-phthalaldehyde, is a high-level disinfectant commonly used for the reprocessing of flexible endoscopes. It is important to neutralize OPA effectively for safe disposal to minimize any potential hazards to human health and the environment.

Glycine acts as a neutralizer for OPA, allowing the chemical to be safely deactivated. When OPA is mixed with glycine, it undergoes a chemical reaction that renders it non-toxic and safe for disposal. This neutralization process is critical in healthcare environments where strict protocols must be followed to ensure that harmful substances do not enter waste streams or pose risks to personnel handling the disposal.

Other options, such as water, sodium bicarbonate, and ethyl alcohol, do not effectively neutralize OPA. Water may dilute the substance but will not neutralize it, while sodium bicarbonate might alter pH levels without effectively converting OPA into a safe compound. Ethyl alcohol has no neutralizing effect on OPA and could potentially exacerbate its toxic properties. Therefore, glycine is the appropriate choice for safely neutralizing OPA before disposal.