Microbial growth control and sterilization eliminate or reduce microorganisms to prevent infections in healthcare settings. Key concepts: sterilization (destroys all microorganisms including spores) using autoclaving, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide plasma; disinfection (destroys most pathogens except spores) using chemicals like bleach, alcohol; antisepsis (on living tissue) using chlorhexidine, iodine; and cleaning (removes organic material). Selection depends on item's intended use (critical items entering sterile tissue require sterilization; semi-critical contacting mucous membranes require high-level disinfection; non-critical contacting intact skin require low-level disinfection). Nurses follow facility protocols for reprocessing equipment. Quality control: biological indicators for sterilizers; expiration dates for disinfectants. Education includes proper dilution and contact time. Documentation of sterilization cycles may be required. Environmental cleaning reduces healthcare-associated infections. Understanding principles ensures appropriate level of microbial reduction for patient safety.

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Zambia

• Joseph Soko – 101 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies