Aseptic technique: Infection Prevention and Control Principles

Aseptic technique is a set of practices that aim to minimise the transmission of microorganisms with the aim of protecting patients from healthcare-associated infections and protects healthcare workers from contact with blood, body fluid and body tissue.

Aseptic technique aims to prevent the transmission of pathogenic organisms/infectious agents, in sufficient quantity to cause infection. This can include actions that minimise infectious agents from being introduced to susceptible body sites by the hands of staff, surfaces or equipment. 

Aseptic technique, when performed correctly helps facilitate:

  • Minimisation of contamination of key parts and key sites
  • Protection of patients from their own microorganisms that may cause infection
  • Reduction of the transmission of microorganisms
  • Maintenance of the sterility of equipment and key parts used for aseptic procedures.

Principles of aseptic technique

  • Sequencing of actions and procedures, including performing a risk assessment
  • environmental controls
  • hand hygiene
  • the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (sterile and non-sterile)
  • maintenance of aseptic fields
  • non-touch technique.

Resources

Further information

For further information on aseptic technique, contact SA Health's Infection Control Service on (08) 7425 7161.