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Related Concept Videos

Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection01:30

Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection

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Cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization are the methods that help to break the infection chain and prevent disease.
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The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
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Handwashing is hand hygiene with plain or antimicrobial soap and water to physically remove dirt, organic material, and microorganisms. However, it may not kill all microorganisms. The handwashing procedure requires a hand wash basin, liquid soap, paper towels, a domestic waste bin, and disposable nail cleaner as optional equipment.
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The pre-procedure steps of handwashing include removing jewelry and rolling up sleeves. However, many organizations allow staff to wear wedding rings.
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Asepsis is the practice of preventing or breaking the chain of infection. The nurse employs aseptic techniques to prevent the spread of microorganisms and reduce the risk of diseases. Hand hygiene is the cornerstone of aseptic techniques and is classified into medical and surgical asepsis. Medical asepsis includes hand hygiene and the use of gloves. Surgical asepsis, or the sterile technique, refers to practices that render and keep objects and areas free of microorganisms.
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In healthcare, the chemical method of sterilization uses chemical sterilants to treat surgical instruments and medical supplies to help prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens to patients. Due to heat sensitivity, most medical supplies and equipment should not be exposed to high temperatures. These parts include rubber, plastic, glass, and other similar elements.
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Failure of Cleaning Verification in Pharmaceutical Industry Due to Uncleanliness of Stainless Steel Surface
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Back to Basics: Instrument Cleaning.

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    |March 1, 2017
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Proper surgical instrument cleaning is vital for patient safety and a safe operating room (OR) environment. This guide reviews essential steps for instrument reprocessing before sterilization.

    Keywords:
    biofilminstrument cleaninginstrument processingsurgical instrumentsultrasonic cleaner

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    Area of Science:

    • Healthcare
    • Surgical Technology
    • Infection Control

    Background:

    • Surgical instrument reprocessing is critical for patient safety.
    • Challenges exist for perioperative teams in effectively cleaning instruments.
    • Inadequate cleaning can compromise sterilization and patient outcomes.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To outline fundamental steps in surgical instrument cleaning.
    • To highlight key considerations for effective instrument reprocessing.
    • To reinforce best practices for perioperative staff.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of established protocols for surgical instrument cleaning.
    • Discussion of critical factors influencing cleaning efficacy.
    • Emphasis on pre-sterilization processing steps.

    Main Results:

    • Proper cleaning removes organic debris and soil from instruments.
    • Cleaned instruments are prepared for effective sterilization or disinfection.
    • Adherence to basic steps ensures instrument safety.

    Conclusions:

    • Thorough cleaning is a non-negotiable prerequisite for instrument sterilization.
    • Implementing basic reprocessing steps enhances operating room safety.
    • Perioperative teams must prioritize instrument cleaning for patient well-being.