Sterilization is defined as

Sterilizaon o The process by which an arcle surface or medium is freed of all living microorganisms either in the vegetave or spore state → Complete absence of microorganism. Disinfecon o Destrucon or removal of all pathogenic organisms capable of giving rise to infecon → reducon in the microorganisms to such a level which is deemed no longer harmful to health. o Unlike sterilizaon, disinfecon is not sporicidal (does not kill spores). Decontaminaon o The process of rendering ofan arcle or area free of dangerfrom contaminants, including microbialt chemical, radioacve and other hazards. Ansepsis o It is defined as” Prevenon of infecon, usually by inhibing the growth of bacteria in wound or ssues”. Ansepcs o Chemical disinfectants which can be safely applied to skin or mucous membrane are called ansepcs or skin disinfaetant. o Best and most commonly used ansepc is povidone iodine (betadine). Commonly used skin disinfectants for hand washing are povidone iodine (betadine), chlorhexidine and isopropyl alcohol. Disinfectants o Anmicrobials applied only to inanimate object. They are not used for surface disinfecon^^ (skin or mucous membrane). Germicides o These include both ansepcs and disinfectant.