Introduction
This topic covers aseptics, the system of measures that keeps microorganisms out of the patient's wound, body cavities and the sterile surgical field. It also covers the historical development of aseptic thinking and the planning of the operating room (theatre) so that it supports sterile practice.
Definition and basic principles
Asepsis aims to prevent microbes from reaching the operative site in the first place, whereas antisepsis tries to destroy microbes already present on skin or tissues. Modern surgery relies mainly on asepsis, with antiseptic agents used as an additional layer of protection.
- A sterile field is kept separate from non-sterile areas; only sterile items and sterile persons may touch it.
- Sterility is an all-or-nothing state: an item that touches a non-sterile surface or person must be regarded as non-sterile.
- Hand hygiene, gowning and gloving protect both the patient and the surgical team.
- Environmental control (ventilation, traffic, surfaces) limits airborne and surface contamination.
- Sterilization of instruments, dressings and materials is verified by monitoring, not assumed.