Decontamination and sterilization

Decontamination is the reduction or elimination of microorganisms from medical devices, surfaces and environment such that they cannot reach vulnerable sites to cause infection. With the increasing volume of surgical procedures and challenge of healthcare-associated infection, adoption of safe appropriate decontamination processes across the healthcare environment is mandatory. It is vital that all healthcare providers be familiar with contemporary routines. The aim of this article is to outline current decontamination practices in the UK.