What term describes destroying all forms of bacteria and other microorganisms including spores?

• A. Sterilizing
• B. Disinfecting
• C. Sanitizing
• D. Cleaning

Answer: (A)

Destruction of all forms of bacteria and other microorganisms, including spores, is sterilization. Sterilization means there are no viable microorganisms remaining on the item or surface, even the most resistant spores. Achieving this level of sterility requires methods designed to kill spores, such as steam under pressure (autoclaving), dry heat, certain chemical sterilants, or radiation. Disinfection, by contrast, reduces or inactivates many pathogens on inanimate surfaces but does not guarantee all spores are killed. Sanitizing lowers microbial counts to safe levels, and cleaning removes soil and debris but does not ensure sterility. In practice, sterilization is required for items that will enter sterile body sites or come into contact with sterile tissues, while disinfection or sanitizing may be sufficient for other surfaces or equipment.