key terms
air exchanges
The process of removing and replacing air in a room or space to maintain air quality and pressure.
auxillary clamp
An extra clamp used to control fluid flow in IV lines.
compounded sterile preparation
A custom-made sterile medication prepared in a pharmacy.
drop factor
The number of drops per mL of fluid in IV tubing.
injection port
A site for injecting medication into IV tubing.
Asepsis
The state of being free from infection-causing germs.
Autoclave
A machine that uses high pressure and heat to sterilize equipment
critical site
An area that needs to be kept sterile to prevent contamination (e.g., injection sites).
epidemic
A widespread outbreak of a disease.
in-line filter
A filter in IV tubing that removes particles.
anteroom
A small room or area leading to a larger, often sterile, room (like a clean room).
bactrium
A type of microorganism (bacteria).
disinfectant
A chemical that kills germs on surfaces.
filtration
Removing particles or contaminants from a fluid using a filter.
ISO
International Organization for Standardization (often refers to standards for clean rooms).
aseptic hand washing
Washing hands to remove germs
Buffer Room
A room that helps control airflow between areas of different cleanliness levels.
distillation
Purifying liquids by boiling and condensing them.
HEPA
High Efficiency Particulate Air (filter).
IV administration set
Tubing and equipment for giving IV fluids or meds.
Aseptic technique
Methods used to prevent contamination and maintain sterility, esp. in medical procedures.
clean room
A room designed to minimize dust, bacteria, and other contaminants.
drip camber
Part of IV tubing where fluid collects and drips are counted.
Horizontal Laminar Air Flow Workbench
A work surface with controlled airflow to keep things sterile.
phlebitis
Inflammation of a vein, often due to IV therapy.