The principles of asepsis, also referred to as aseptic technique, encompass a set of operational protocols aimed at controlling microorganisms and infection pathways. These principles primarily include sterilization and disinfection. During procedures such as surgery, puncture, catheterization, injection, and wound dressing, a series of strict measures are adopted to prevent microorganisms from entering wounds or tissues through contact, air, or droplets, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
Sterilization refers to the elimination of all living microorganisms, including bacterial spores. Disinfection, on the other hand, involves the elimination of pathogenic and other harmful microorganisms but does not necessitate the removal or destruction of all microorganisms. From a clinical standpoint, both sterilization and disinfection must effectively destroy all pathogenic microorganisms to meet the requirements of clinical aseptic technique. Items used in surgical fields or wounds are processed according to sterilization standards, while patient skin, the arms of surgical personnel, specific surgical instruments, and the air in operating rooms are treated following disinfection standards to remove harmful microorganisms.
The scope of aseptic technique not only includes various methods of sterilization and disinfection but also relies heavily on associated operational rules and management systems. Healthcare workers must adhere to a set of procedural guidelines during medical and nursing operations to ensure that sterile items and sterile areas remain uncontaminated, thereby preventing pathogenic microorganisms from entering the human body. All medical staff are expected to consciously observe and rigorously implement these rules and regulations to safeguard the effective application of aseptic technique.
To be continued