Sterilization, Disinfectants, Antiseptics

All individuals performing even minor procedures on live vertebrates (needle sticks, venous cannulation, skin biopsies, etc) must have a good understanding of asepsis (see definitions).

No matter what method of sterilization or disinfection planned, instruments must be properly cleaned:

Dirt, blood, and gross contaminants interfere with all methods of sterilization.
Instruments should be cleaned in cool water with detergent immediately following surgery.
Ultrasonic cleaners are useful for difficult instruments.

There are a wide variety of methods to sterilize or cleanse materials used in research. The following provides some discussion on techniques used at UAF.

Steam Sterilization (autoclave)

Gas Sterilization (ethylene oxide)

Dry Heat Sterilization

Cold Sterilization

Disinfectants and Antiseptics