The purpose of this video is to develop an understanding of the many sources of contamination in the surgical suite and the role that environmental cleaning has in preventing health care acquired infections in patients. The ultimate goal of environmental cleaning procedures is to protect both patients and personnel from exposure to infectious pathogens. The four key elements of these cleaning procedures are: 1) wearing personal protective equipment; 2) using approved disinfectants; 3) using appropriate cleaning equipment and supplies, and; 4) segregating waste products.

Upon completion of this activity, the participant will be able to:

• Recognize the role of the environment in the potential transmission of health care-associated infections (HAIs).
• Describe the importance of cleaning in the surgical setting.
• Demonstrate the differences between cleaning and disinfection.
• Differentiate between preliminary, end-of-procedure, and terminal cleaning.
• List the critical areas within the surgical setting that must be cleaned.