What procedure would require the use of high-level disinfection?

High-level disinfection is required for medical instruments and devices that come into contact with mucous membranes or non-intact skin. An endoscope fits this criterion, as it is a flexible tube used to examine the inside of a body cavity or organ and is often inserted through a natural opening, making thorough cleaning and disinfection essential to prevent infections.

The process of high-level disinfection is designed to eliminate a significant number of microorganisms from the endoscope’s surfaces. This is crucial because endoscopes can potentially transmit pathogens if not properly disinfected after each use.

In contrast, although surgery involves instruments that need to be sterile, it typically requires sterilization techniques rather than high-level disinfection. Ultrasound procedures primarily use gel and external devices that do not necessitate high-level disinfection. Physical therapy equipment is usually treated with lower levels of disinfection since it does not typically come into contact with mucous membranes or requires the same level of sterilization. Therefore, the endoscope is the correct answer, as it specifically requires high-level disinfection to ensure patient safety.