Which term means when something is rendered unclean or nonsterile?

Which term means when something is rendered unclean or nonsterile?

• A. Sterilization
• B. Contamination
• C. Decontamination
• D. Asepsis

Answer: (B)

Contamination describes the condition of being unclean or nonsterile, meaning unwanted microorganisms or dirt are present on a surface or item. In healthcare settings, this happens when a sterile item is exposed to nonsterile agents. Sterilization is the process that eliminates all microorganisms to make something sterile. Decontamination refers to reducing or removing contaminants to a safer level, not simply describing the state of being unclean. Asepsis is the absence of pathogenic microorganisms—an aim or state of sterile conditions. So when something is rendered unclean or nonsterile, it is contamination.

Contamination describes the condition of being unclean or nonsterile, meaning unwanted microorganisms or dirt are present on a surface or item. In healthcare settings, this happens when a sterile item is exposed to nonsterile agents. Sterilization is the process that eliminates all microorganisms to make something sterile. Decontamination refers to reducing or removing contaminants to a safer level, not simply describing the state of being unclean. Asepsis is the absence of pathogenic microorganisms—an aim or state of sterile conditions. So when something is rendered unclean or nonsterile, it is contamination.