The Principles of Medical Device Decontamination

Terminology and Definitions

Sterile

Free from viable microorganisms.

Minimum package that minimises the risk of ingress of microorganisms and allows aseptic presentation of the sterile contents at the point of use. State of being free from viable microorganisms Note 1 to entry: In practice, no such absolute statement regarding the absence of microorganisms can be proven.

Sterile Barrier System (SBS)

Sterility

Sterility Assurance Level (SAL)

Probability of a single viable microorganism occurring on an item after sterilisation.

A centralised department specifically designed to reprocess reusable medical devices and equipment and to distribute pre-sterilised, commercially prepared packages for clinical use.

Sterile Service Department (SSD)

Validated process used to render product free from viable microorganisms.

Sterilisation

Equipment that maintains the microbiological quality of processed thermolabile endoscope.

Storage cabinet

Thermal disinfection

Disinfection achieved by the action of moist heat.

Using discarded objects or material, in such a way as to create a product of higher quality or value than the original.

Upcycling

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