Title: Explain the concept of asepsis in veterinary work.
Course: Veterinary Science II (18105-II) > Section: Demonstrating Surgical Procedures

Explanation should include

- definitions of asepsis, aseptic, disinfect, sterile, and sterilize and the differences among these
- differences between infection and contamination and between a disinfectant and an antiseptic
- the importance of asepsis
- principles of disease transmission, including the concept that microbes (e.g., Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA]) can remain infective on surfaces for periods of time
- methods of sterilization commonly used in veterinary hospitals (e.g., steam in an autoclave, ethylene oxide)
- factors that could alter sterilization (e.g., incorrect pressure/time during an autoclave cycle)
- recommended practices for maintaining a sterile field and preventing breaks in sterility.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How can contamination be prevented in a veterinary facility?
- How can a veterinary healthcare professional be the vector for cross-contamination?
- How can veterinary professionals prevent contaminated wounds from becoming infectious?
- How long can some microbes remain infective on surfaces, including those of surgical instruments?
- Why is contact time crucial with the application of chemical disinfectants?
- Why are spores particularly difficult to destroy?