Key Terms
FOMITE
An inanimate object that may harbor microbes and aid disease transmission. Examples: doorknobs, toys, towels.
STERILIZATION
Complete removal or killing of ALL vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses from an item or environment. Accomplished b
STERILANT
A chemical capable of achieving sterilization; kills all microbes, viruses, and endospores given sufficient exposure tim
ASEPTIC TECHNIQUE
Combination of protocols that collectively maintain sterility (asepsis) and prevent contamination of the patient with mi
SEPSIS
Systemic inflammatory response to infection; symptoms include high fever, increased heart and respiratory rates, shock,
STERILE FIELD
A designated area kept free of all vegetative microbes, endospores, and viruses during medical procedures.
DISINFECTION
Inactivates most microbes on the surface of a fomite using antimicrobial chemicals or heat. Does NOT achieve sterility;
DISINFECTANT
Antimicrobial chemical used on non-living surfaces (lab benches, clinical surfaces, bathroom sinks). Examples: chlorine
ANTISEPTIC
Antimicrobial chemical safe for use on living skin or tissue. Must be selectively effective and penetrate tissue without
ANTISEPSIS
The process of applying an antiseptic.
DEGERMING
Significantly reducing microbial numbers by gently scrubbing living tissue with a mild chemical (soap or alcohol swab).
SANITIZATION
Cleansing of fomites to reduce microbial load to levels deemed safe for public health. Example: commercial dishwashers u
COMMERCIAL STERILIZATION
Heat treatment used for canned foods targeting pathogens (especially C. botulinum) while allowing some non-pathogenic or
CRITICAL ITEMS
Must be sterile; penetrate sterile tissues or bloodstream. Examples: surgical instruments, catheters, intravenous fluids
SEMICRITICAL ITEMS
Contact mucous membranes or non-intact skin but do not penetrate tissues; require HIGH-LEVEL disinfection, not necessari