Aseptic technique

Aseptic technique is a set of specific practices and procedures performed under carefully controlled conditions with the goal of minimizing contamination by pathogens. Aseptic technique is widely used in microbiology, surgery, pharmacology, and other fields of science and medicine.

History

The concept of aseptic technique was first proposed in the 19th century by Ignaz Semmelweis and Joseph Lister. Their work was based on the principles of antisepsis, which is the destruction of disease-causing microorganisms.

Principles

The main principles of aseptic technique include:

• Prevention of direct contact: Direct contact can lead to contamination. Therefore, sterile materials should be touched only with sterile gloves or instruments.
• Use of barriers: Barriers such as gloves, gowns, and masks are used to prevent the spread of microorganisms.
• Immediate containment of contamination: Any spill or contamination should be immediately contained and cleaned to prevent the spread of microorganisms.

Techniques

There are several techniques used in aseptic technique, including:

• Sterilization: This is the process of killing all microorganisms on a surface or in a substance. Methods include heat, chemicals, irradiation, and filtration.
• Disinfection: This is the process of killing many or all pathogenic microorganisms, except bacterial spores, on inanimate objects.
• Antisepsis: This is the process of killing or inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms on living tissue.

Applications

Aseptic technique is used in many fields, including:

• Surgery: Aseptic technique is crucial in surgery to prevent postoperative infections.
• Microbiology: In microbiology labs, aseptic technique is used to prevent contamination of samples and the environment.
• Pharmacology: In the production of pharmaceuticals, aseptic technique is used to ensure that the products are free of contamination.

See also

• Sterilization (microbiology)
• Disinfection
• Antisepsis
• Surgery
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology