2-2.
ASEPTIC TECHNIQUE
a. Aseptic technique is a discipline that consists of a series of events to guard
the patient against infection. This procedure is used to reduce the direct or indirect
transfer of germs to any surface, article, or person.
(1) With traumatic wounds, which are assumed to be contaminated
beforehand, aseptic technique refers to applying a dressing in a manner so that
(2) In administration of preparations by injection or infusion, it refers to
measures designed to prevent or minimize introduction of pathogens beneath the skin.
(3)
In surgery, it normally implies sterile conditions in and around the patient
area.
b. Treatment personnel can carry out aseptic technique by:
(1)
Keeping their hands clean and as free from contamination as possible.
(2) Ensuring that all sterile items are kept free from all organisms.
(Dressings that are to be applied to wounds, needles, and instruments to be inserted
through the skin, and syringes to be filled for injection into the body must not touch
anything unsterile before being used.)
(3)
Keeping from breathing, coughing, or sneezing on wounds or sterile
items.
2-3.
STERILIZATION
Microorganisms (including bacteria, spores, and viruses) can be completely
destroyed through the process of sterilization. Surgical instruments, dressings, and
certain other items are sterile and remain so until individual packages or seals are
penetrated and contaminants are admitted. Sterilization normally is accomplished by
use of heat, preferably moist heat under pressure such as is used in an autoclave.
2-4.
DISINFECTION
Disinfectants are used as a means for destroying harmful organisms with the
exception of the spore forms of bacteria. In the emergency medical treatment situation,
the spore-forming organisms of importance are those that cause tetanus and gas
gangrene. Tetanus, in the absence of preventive antitetanus inoculation, and gas
gangrene are serious infections which threaten wounded patients, especially those with
deep, dirty wounds in which oxygen supply is very limited.
MD0540
2-4