- Asepsis
Asepsis is the practice to reduce or eliminate contaminants (such as
bacteria ,virus es,fungi , andparasites ) from entering the operative field insurgery ormedicine to preventinfection . Ideally, a field is "sterile" — free of all contaminants — a situation that is difficult to attain. However, elimination of infection is the goal of asepsis, not sterility.Related terms
Antiseptis is a term used sometimes as a synonym, but also applies to the uses of antiseptics.
Antiseptics are agents that reduce or kill germs chemically and are applied to skin and wound surfaces. In contrast,disinfectant s are chemicals applied to inert surfaces and are usually too harsh to be used on biological surfaces.Antibiotic s kill specifically bacteria and work biochemically; they can be used externally or internally.History
The first step in asepsis is cleanliness, a concept already espoused by
Hippocrates .The modern concept of asepsis evolved in the 19th century.Semmelweis showed that washing the hands prior to delivery reducedpuerperal fever . After the suggestion byLouis Pasteur , Lister introduced the use of carbolic acid as an antiseptic and reduced surgical infections rates.Lawson Tait went from antisepsis to asepsis, introducing principles and practices that have remained valid to this day.Ernst von Bergmann introduced theautoclave , a device used for the sterilization of surgical instruments.Methods
Today's techniques include a series of steps that complement each other. Foremost remains good hygienic practice. The procedure room is laid out according to specific guidelines, subject to regulations concerning filtering and airflow, and kept clean between surgical cases. A patient who is brought for the procedure is washed and wears a clean gown. The surgical site is washed, possibly shaved, and skin is exposed to a
germicide (i.e., aniodine solution such asbetadine ). In turn, members of the surgical team wash hands and arms with germicidal solution. Operating surgeons and nurses wear sterile gowns and gloves. Hair is covered and a surgical mask is worn. Instruments are sterilized through autoclaving, or, if disposable, are used once. Irrigation is used in the surgical site. Suture material orxenograft s have been sterilized beforehand. Dressing material is sterile. Antibiotics are often not necessary in a "clean" case, that is, a surgical procedure where no infection is apparent; however, when a case is considered "contaminated," they are usually indicated.Dirty and biologically contaminated material is subject to regulated disposal.
External links
* [http://www.surgical-tutor.org.uk/default-home.htm?core/preop1/asepsis.htm~right History]
* [http://www.mansfield.ohio-state.edu/~sabedon/biol2030.htm Definition]
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