Killing or removing pathogens or arresting their ability to grow and multiply. A chemical substance that kills bacteria or other microorganisms that can cause infection. Examples are tincture of iodine, argyrols, gentian violet, mercocresols, nitromersol, thimerosal, benzalkonium, and alcohol, sterilization.
The removal of microorganisms on the surface of something.
The use of a disinfectant to destroy disease-causing organisms and their products.
The process of eliminating infective microorganisms from contaminated instruments, clothing, or surroundings by using physical means or chemicals (disinfectants).
A process by which vegetative organisms, excluding spores, are killed in order to prevent the items disinfected from passing on infection. Equipment, bedlinen and hard surfaces may all be disinfected the method chosen will depend on the material and size of the object. One of the most important procedures in preventing the spread of infection is the careful washing of hands before handling equipment and between treating different patients. Sterilization is different from disinfection in that the methods used kill all living organisms and spores.
The application of a disinfectant to materials and surfaces to destroy pathogenic microorganisms.
The process that eliminates most, but not necessarily all, microorganisms on nonporous surfaces. This process is not effective against bacterial spores.
The elimination of harmful pathogens and their toxins.