During the infection control process, which level of decontamination completely destroys all organisms?

The process of decontamination has different levels that are designed to manage the presence of microorganisms on surfaces and tools. Sterilization is the highest level of decontamination and is specifically aimed at completely eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their spores. This is critical in environments such as medical or esthetic practices where any residual organism could lead to infections or complications.

Sterilization can be achieved through various methods, such as steam (autoclaving), dry heat, irradiation, or chemical means that are recognized to kill all microbial life. By achieving this level of decontamination, practitioners ensure that their tools and equipment are safe for use on clients, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.

In contrast, sanitation refers to the reduction of microbial numbers to a safe level, while disinfection involves killing a significant number of organisms, but may not eliminate all spores. Pest control deals with managing infestations of pests and is not a method for decontaminating tools or surfaces. Understanding these distinctions is essential for maintaining a safe practice environment.