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Chapter 24 - Fundamentals of Decontamination and Sterilisation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 August 2022

By
Martin Kiernan  and
Roger King
Edited by
Daniel Rodger ,
Kevin Henshaw ,
Paul Rawling  and
Scott Miller
Daniel Rodger
Affiliation:
Senior Lecturer in Perioperative Practice, London South Bank University
Kevin Henshaw
Affiliation:
Associate Head of Allied Health Professions, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk
Paul Rawling
Affiliation:
Senior Lecturer in Perioperative Practice, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk
Scott Miller
Affiliation:
Consultant Anaesthetist, St Helens and Knowsley Hospitals NHS Trust
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Summary

This chapter explains the fundamental aspects of decontamination and sterilisation. A working knowledge of the principles of sterilisation, disinfection, and infection control are essential for effective and safe perioperative practice. Decontamination is defined as the combination of methods—including cleaning, disinfection, and sterilisation—used to make a reusable item safe for further use on patients and for handling by staff. The term refers to the whole cycle, including processes such as cleaning, disinfection, and sterilisation. Aseptic techniques are fundamental to supporting a safe environment and to ensure patient and staff safety with regards to infection and its associated risks. It is essential that perioperative practitioners adhere to national and local standards and understand how the decontamination cycle can mitigate the risk of infection.

Keywords

DecontaminationSterilizationCleaningDisinfectionInfection controlPatient safetySurgeryRiskMicroorganismsAutoclave
Type
Chapter
Information
Fundamentals of Operating Department Practice , pp. 264 - 273
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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References

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