Critical Thinking Exercises: Questions, Answers, and Sources / References
Critical thinking questions are in bold type, and the answers are italicized. Additional resources or references are provided below.
- Describe the differences between sterile, no touch, and clean techniques in relation to cleaning wounds
Sterile Technique
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No Touch Technique
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Clean Technique
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- A technique where avoiding introducing microorganisms into a wound or area is crucial.
- E.g., surgical dressing change, catheterization
- Principles of asepsis are followed.
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- A method of changing a dressing that involves NOT touching the wound with your hand, thus NOT introducing microbes into a wound / area.
- Principles of asepsis are followed.
- You can achieve no touch technique by using sterile instruments or sterile gloves.
- Sterile dressing changes can be done by using sterile instruments to manipulate gauze or dressings.
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- A method of changing a dressing where asepsis is not as crucial. E.g., pressure injury wound (because these wounds are highly colonized).
- Clean equipment (NOT sterile)
- Many procedures in a person’s home are done with clean technique because microbes there are part of their normal flora.
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Source:
Infection Prevention Team. (2017, January). Asepsis, non touch technique and clean techniques (No. G_IPC_44). Lincolnshire Health Service. https://www.lincolnshirecommunityhealthservices.nhs.uk/application/files/2115/0053/9993/G_IPC_44_Asepsis_Non_Touch_Technique__Clean_Techniques.pdf