Embalming pt. 1

Sterilization

A process that renders a substance free from all microorganisms.

Germicide

An agent, usually chemical, applied either in inanimate objects/surfaces or living tissue for the purpose of destroying disease-causing microbial agents, but usually not bacterial spores.

Disinfectant

An agent, usually chemical, applied to inanimate objects/surfaces for the purpose of destroying disease-causing microbial agents, but usually not bacterial spores.

Sanitizer

An agent, usually chemical, that possesses disinfecting properties when applied to a precleaned object/surface.

Bactericidal

Destructive to bacteria.

Asepsis

Freedom from infection and from any form of life; sterility.

Bacteriostatic

Inhibiting the growth or multiplication of bacteria (no destruction of viability implied).

Cleaning

Removal of infectious agents by scrubbing and washing, as with hot water, soap, or a suitable detergent.

Terminal disinfection

The cleaning and disinfection of the body, instruments and the embalming room following embalming of the body.

Concurrent disinfection

The cleaning of the body and instruments at the time of embalming the body.

Decontamination

The use of physical, chemical, or other means to remove, inactivate, or destroy harmful microorganisms or chemicals from a surface.

Primary disinfection

Those disinfection procedures carried out prior to embalming the body. This would include topical disinfection of and washing the deceased human body.