- Asepsis refers to the state of being free from disease-causing microorganisms. In medical and laboratory settings, asepsis is achieved through a set of practices designed to prevent contamination from pathogens.
- There are two main types of asepsis: medical and surgical. Medical asepsis, also known as clean technique, involves procedures to reduce the number of organisms present and prevent their spread. This includes regular handwashing, using disinfectants, and maintaining a clean environment.
- Surgical asepsis, or sterile technique, is a more rigorous approach that aims to eliminate all microorganisms. It is essential in operating rooms and during invasive procedures. This involves sterilizing all instruments, wearing sterile attire, and maintaining strict protocols for handling sterile items.
- The principles of asepsis include working from clean to dirty areas, keeping sterile items above waist level, never reaching over a sterile field, and maintaining a sterile barrier between sterile and non-sterile items. These practices are fundamental to preventing healthcare-associated infections.
