Question

28
match the term with its description to test your understanding of microbial control terminology.
1 sterilization 2 decontamination 3 disinfection 4 antisepsis
match each of the options above to the items below.
destruction of all microbial life
destruction of most microbial life on inanimate surfaces
destruction of most microbial life on living tissue
mechanical removal of most microbes from living or inanimate surfaces

Explanation:

1. Sterilization: Defined as the destruction of all microbial life (including spores, which are highly resistant). So it matches "Destruction of all microbial life".
2. Disinfection: Targets inanimate surfaces and destroys most microbial life (does not necessarily kill all, especially spores). So it matches "Destruction of most microbial life on inanimate surfaces".
3. Antisepsis: Used on living tissue (like skin) to destroy most microbial life (milder than sterilization to avoid harming tissue). So it matches "Destruction of most microbial life on living tissue".
4. Decontamination: Involves the mechanical (or chemical) removal of most microbes from surfaces (living or inanimate), reducing microbial load. So it matches "Mechanical removal of most microbes from living or inanimate surfaces".

Answer:

1. Destruction of all microbial life: 1. Sterilization
2. Destruction of most microbial life on inanimate surfaces: 3. Disinfection
3. Destruction of most microbial life on living tissue: 4. Antisepsis
4. Mechanical removal of most microbes from living or inanimate surfaces: 2. Decontamination