Is Sterile Technique Vital in the Cath Lab?
The concept of asepsis, or the prevention of microbial contamination, evolved with the development of sterilization. Surgeons learned that all things that come in contact with a wound should be sterile. Following the development of sterilization, other aspects of aseptic technique evolved. These included the refinement of surgical techniques, methods and universal precautions to protect patients and personnel from infection.1 Because of the frequency of community-acquired infections and the potential development of nosocomial infection, the ideal state of an infection-free procedure is not always a reality. Careful attention to the creation and maintenance of a safe and therapeutic environment is mandatory. Knowledge and methods of control are the basis of prevention of infection.1 Aseptic and sterile techniques based on sound scientific principles are carried out primarily to prevent transmission of microorganisms that cause infection. To prevent infection, all possible measures are t
