Sterilization
/stɛɹʌlʌzeɪʃʌn/
1. [noun] sterilization describes a process that destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life and is carried out in health-care facilities by physical or chemical methods. Steam under pressure, dry heat, EtO gas, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, and liquid chemicals are the principal sterilizing agents used in health-care facilities. Sterilization is intended to convey an absolute meaning; unfortunately, however, some health professionals and the technical and commercial literature refer to “disinfection” as “sterilization” and items as “partially sterile.” When chemicals are used to destroy all forms of microbiologic life, they can be called chemical sterilants. These same germicides used for shorter exposure periods also can be part of the disinfection process (i.e., high-level disinfection). Sterilization should not be confused with Disinfection and Cleaning. See: https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/introduction.html ; Accessed May 28 2019
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/introduction.html
Frequently Asked Questions
How does sterilization impact the safety of instruments used in professional foot care and pedicures?
Sterilization ensures that all microbial life is eliminated from tools like nail clippers and cuticle pushers. This process creates a sterile environment in foot care settings, making procedures like pedicures safer by reducing the risk of spreading infections.
What distinguishes complete sterilization from high-level disinfection in foot care settings?
Complete sterilization destroys every form of microbial life, unlike high-level disinfection which reduces most microorganisms but may leave some spores. In foot care, surgical tools or equipment that contact skin often require total sterilization for maximum hygiene.
How might the concept of sterilization be applied in everyday foot care practices?
For example, during a professional pedicure, instruments are sterilized using methods like steam under pressure or chemical agents. This thorough process is crucial to ensure that foot care tools do not harbor harmful germs, supporting overall foot health.