Intermittent sterilization is a process used to sterilize equipment used in healthcare facilities. Its spelling may seem tricky at first but can be easily explained through IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "in-ter", with stress on the second syllable "mit". The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and stress on the first syllable, "ter". The final syllable "-iza-tion" is pronounced as "eye-zay-shun". Together, it forms a mouthful of a word that is important in maintaining hygiene in hospitals and clinics.
Intermittent sterilization refers to a process used to eliminate or kill microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, from objects, surfaces, or environments. It involves the partial or periodic sterilization of these materials instead of a continuous or permanent sterilization method.
The intermittent sterilization technique primarily relies on the application of heat or chemicals to destroy the microorganisms. Heat-based intermittent sterilization commonly uses methods like boiling, steam sterilization, or dry heat. In these processes, the materials or objects are exposed to high temperatures for a certain period, usually causing cell death and microorganism elimination. Chemical-based intermittent sterilization, on the other hand, utilizes disinfectants or germicides to kill the microorganisms. These may include alcohol-based compounds like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, or other chemical agents such as hydrogen peroxide or chlorine-based solutions.
Intermittent sterilization is particularly useful when continuous or permanent sterilization is not feasible or required. It is commonly employed in healthcare settings, laboratories, and industries where regular or periodic disinfection is necessary to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This method provides a practical and effective means of achieving the desired level of microbial reduction or elimination. However, it is important to note that intermittent sterilization may not completely eliminate all microorganisms in certain cases, compared to more rigorous sterilization techniques. Therefore, the choice of intermittent sterilization should be based on the specific needs and requirements of the situation at hand.
Fractional s. or discontinuous s.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "intermittent sterilization" does not have a specific etymology because it is a combination of various terms. However, we can break it down into its constituent parts to understand its meaning.
1. "Intermittent": This word comes from the Latin word "intermittere", where "inter" means "between" and "mittere" means "send". It refers to something that occurs at irregular intervals or with breaks or pauses in between.
2. "Sterilization": This word is derived from the Latin word "sterilis", meaning "barren" or "unproductive". It refers to the process of making something free from living organisms or capable of reproducing, such as killing bacteria or rendering an object germ-free.
Combining these two terms, "intermittent sterilization" refers to a sterilization process that occurs at irregular or sporadic intervals.