Untitled Deck Flashcards
What does the term ‘contamination’ refer to?
Contamination refers to something that is unclean or dirty.
Name some potential contaminants or hazards that could be encountered in a medical or clinical setting.
Blood, urine, fecal matter, mucous membrane secretions, dirt/debris, bioburden, and biofilms.
What is the first step in the decontamination process?
The first step is cleaning, which involves removing any gross soil.
What is the purpose of cleaning in the decontamination process?
The purpose of cleaning is to remove any visible soil or contaminants before further decontamination steps.
What does the term “bioburden” refer to?
Bioburden refers to the presence of microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, on an object or surface.
What is meant by “biofilms” in the context of contamination?
Biofilms are clusters of microorganisms that stick to surfaces and form a protective layer, making them harder to remove.
Why is it important to remove contaminants like blood and urine from surfaces or instruments?
Removing contaminants such as blood and urine helps prevent the spread of infections and protects both patients and healthcare workers.
What is decontamination?
Decontamination is the physical removal of gross debris found on medical equipment or surgical instrumentation.
