t. Hopper. A large utility sink equipped with a flushing device. Used to
dispose of contaminated waste.
u. Infection. Invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms and the
reaction of tissues to their presence.
v. Microorganisms. Living organisms that cannot be seen with the naked
eye, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, yeasts, and molds; also called "microbial life."
w. Procedure. A particular way of doing something; a series of steps followed
in a definite order; a traditional way of doing things.
x. Process. A series of procedures designed to prepare supplies and
equipment for use in giving patient care.
y. Principle. The basis upon which the correct way of doing something is
determined. A reference to the principles or procedures that leads to the right way of
doing something.
z. Sanitation. A process whereby microorganisms present on an object are
reduced in number to a level considered safe for human use.
aa. Sanitizer. An apparatus employing a sanitizing agent such as hot water,
steam, or chemicals.
bb. Scrub. The technician on the operating room team who scrubs, dons
sterile gown and gloves, and functions within the sterile area.
cc. Sepsis. Invasion of the body by pyrogenic microorganisms.
dd. Sponge. A sterile surgical dressing of absorbent material for wiping or
absorbing blood or other fluids during an operation.
ee. Sponge, Radiopaque. This type of sponge has multiple layers of
absorbent gauze with a radiopaque thread sewn in. It is used to control bleeding during
all types of surgery.
ff. Sterile. Free of microorganisms (bacterial, spores, and germs invisible to
the naked eye).
gg. Sterile Field. The area of the operating room that immediately surrounds
and is especially prepared for the patient. To establish the sterile field, all items needed
for the operation are sterilized and only sterile team members function within the sterile
area.
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