Surgical Asepsis and Sterility

autoclave

A device that uses steam under pressure to sterilize equipment and supplies.

bioburden

The number of viable microorganisms on a surface or in a sample.

biological indicator (BI)

A test system containing viable microorganisms used to monitor the effectiveness of sterilization.

Bowie-Dick test

A test used to evaluate the air removal and steam penetration in sterilizers.

cavitation

The formation of vapor cavities in a liquid, often used in ultrasonic cleaning.

chemical indicator/integrator

A device that changes color or form to indicate whether sterilization conditions have been met.

contaminated

Describing items that have been exposed to pathogens or infectious materials.

endoscopes

Instruments used to visualize the interior of a body cavity or organ.

event-related sterility

The concept that sterility is maintained until an event occurs that compromises it.

immediate-use steam sterilization (IUSS)

A method of sterilizing instruments for immediate use without a standard cycle.

immersion

The process of submerging instruments in a disinfectant solution for effective cleaning.

integrity

The state of being whole and undamaged, especially concerning sterile packaging.

intermediate-level disinfection

A disinfection process that eliminates most microorganisms but not all spores.

Julian date

A continuous count of days in a year used for tracking expiration dates.

permeability

The ability of a material to allow fluids or gases to pass through.

sterile field

An area free from all microorganisms, established for surgical procedures.

sterile technique

A method used to prevent contamination during surgical procedures.

sterilization

The process of eliminating all forms of microbial life, including spores.

ultrasonic cleaner

A device that uses high-frequency sound waves to clean instruments.