Infection Control Methodology

Bisc 3115 microbiology infection control

sterilization

destroy all microorganisms (including endospores) on inanimate objects

• free of all life forms, superior method

• heat and chemical immersion methods

disinfection

destroy all recognized pathogens, but not all microbial life forms (does not kill endospores) on inanimate objects

• categorized into 3 levels: high, intermediate, and low

antisepsis

reduction of all recognized pathogens on living tissue

sanitization

mechanical removal of microbes and debris from inanimate objects to reduce levels and meet accepted health standards

degermination

mechanical removal of microbes and debris from living tissue to reduce levels and meet accepted health standards

aseptic

free of all recognized pathogens

decontamination

reduce pathogens to levels considered safe to handle

autoclave

device used to sterilize equipment by subjecting them to pressurized steam