Final answer:
Surgical asepsis refers to maintaining a sterile environment during medical procedures to prevent infections such as sepsis. It involves using sterilized equipment, strict handwashing protocols, and the application of sterilants, which were significantly improved by Joseph Lister to decrease the incidence of postsurgical wound infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Surgical asepsis refers to the practices used to maintain a sterile environment during medical procedures. This involves creating and maintaining a sterile field to prevent the contamination of sterile surfaces by microbes, which could lead to severe infections or sepsis. The concept of surgical asepsis includes using sterilized equipment and materials, stringent handwashing protocols, and the application of sterilants to maintain sterility. It was significantly improved by Joseph Lister's introduction of handwashing and the use of carbolic acid to decrease infections.
Clinical items are categorized based on the level of cleanliness needed, depending on whether they come into contact with sterile tissues, mucous membranes, or intact skin. This categorization determines whether items require sterilization, high-level disinfection, or general cleanliness. The goal is to minimize the risk of iatrogenic diseases and nosocomial diseases, which can occur due to contamination during medical procedures.
Aseptic technique is crucial for health care professionals to prevent introducing bacteria via contaminated medical equipment like ventilators or intubation tools, ensuring the safety and health of patients undergoing surgical or other invasive procedures.