Medical Asepsis, Sterilization Techniques & Infection Control

Asepsis

absence of pathogenic microorganisms

medical asepsis

uses asepsis technique to eliminate most infectious organisms. Applies to healthcare spaces like exam rooms, emergency rooms, and laboratories.

Asepsis technique

practices/procedures that ensure equipment/spaces are free from harmful microorganisms

medical asepsis technique

include: hand hygiene, santizing patient skin, PPE, disposing of waste

surgical asepsis

Autoclaving

Method of sterilization using steam under pressure

Patient Skin Sanitation

Should be done prior to any medical procedure which involves the skin. Uses an antiseptic. Completed in a circular motion

dry heating

sing high-temperature air to destroy microorganisms

Solvent sterilization

chemical method that uses organic solvents to inactivate or destroy microorganisms (plastic, rubber)

Sterilization Pouch

a single‑use medical device made of medical‑grade paper and plastic (or Tyvek) that allows sterilant penetration during processing and maintains sterility afterward.