The medical term for cleaning, especially in healthcare settings, is often referred to as “sanitation” or “cleaning and disinfection.”

Depending on the context, other terms may be used…

• Sanitation – The process of maintaining a clean environment to prevent the spread of infection. It involves removing dirt and contaminants but may not always eliminate pathogens entirely.
• Disinfection – A more specific term, referring to the process of killing or inactivating harmful microorganisms (e.g., bacteria, viruses, fungi) on surfaces or objects. Disinfection goes beyond regular cleaning.
• Sterilization – The process of completely eliminating all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and spores. This is the highest level of cleaning, especially used for medical instruments.
• Decontamination – The process of cleaning or removing dangerous substances, including pathogens, from surfaces, equipment, or the environment to reduce or eliminate potential risks of infection.

In a healthcare setting, disinfection and sterilization are critical for ensuring patient safety, particularly in operating rooms and with medical equipment.