What is the primary goal of decontamination?

The primary goal of decontamination is to reduce pathogenic material to a level that is considered safe for handling and processing. Decontamination is an essential step in infection control and prepares instruments and surfaces for further cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization. It involves the removal of dirt, debris, and microorganisms to minimize the risk of infection and ensure safety in a healthcare environment.

Sterilization aims to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, which goes beyond the decontamination process. Although disinfection also targets the reduction of pathogens, decontamination specifically addresses the safe handling of potentially contaminated items and surfaces before they are further processed. Therefore, decreasing pathogenic material is the primary focus, laying the foundation for effective infection prevention and control.