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Asepsis in Healthcare. Asepsis. Absence of disease-producing microorganisms or pathogens. Levels of Asepsis. Antisepsis- prevent the growth or inhibit growth of pathogenic organisms but are NOT effective against spores and viruses. * Safe on skin.
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Asepsis • Absence of disease-producing microorganisms or pathogens
Levels of Asepsis • Antisepsis- prevent the growth or inhibit growth of pathogenic organisms but are NOT effective against spores and viruses. • * Safe on skin. • * Examples- antiseptic soap, alcohol, etc.
Levels of Antisepsis • Disinfection – destroys or kills pathogenic organisms but does not always work on spores and viruses • * can irritate skin • * Example: bleach solutions
Levels of Asepsis • Sterilization- process that destroys all microorganisms, both pathogenic and non-pathogenic, including spores and viruses • * Examples: Steam under pressure (autoclave), • radiation, and some chemicals
Handwashing • Best way to limit microorganisms • Soap used as a cleansing agent because it aids in the removal of germs through its sudsy action. Pathogens are trapped in soapsuds and rinsed away. Friction rubs off the pathogens. • Use liquid soap whenever possible. Bar soap harbors microbes. • Use warm water. Hot damages skin. Cold does not make lather as well.
Handwashing • Times handwashing is a must: • When you arrive and before you leave work • Before and after every patient • Any time your hands become contaminated • Before applying gloves and immediately after removal of gloves • Before and after handling a specimen • After dropping something on the floor • After going to the bathroom • After you sneeze or cough or use a tissue • Before and after contact with your mouth or eyes
