Under the patronage of the esteemed Dean of the College of Dentistry, Professor Dr. Raghad Abdul Razzaq Mohammed,
the College of Dentistry at the University of Baghdad organized a workshop entitled “Methods of Decontamination in the Microbiology Laboratory.” The workshop was delivered by Professor Dr. Maha Adel, with the attendance of several faculty members.
Objective of the workshop:
To introduce correct and appropriate methods for sterilizing hands and surfaces, and for handling various biological and non-biological contaminants inside microbiology laboratories in ways that prevent and limit the transmission of laboratory-acquired infections.
Key topics covered:
- Proper technique for washing and disinfecting the hands of laboratory staff.
- Methods for disinfecting and sterilizing laboratory benches, floors, and equipment used for culturing pathogenic microorganisms.
- Appropriate procedures for sterilizing different tools (metal, glass, and plastic).
- Suitable sterilization and disinfection methods for handling various biological contaminants (blood, tissues), as well as single-use and reusable instruments such as syringes, blades, and contaminated endoscopes, ensuring infection prevention or reduction to the minimum.
- Types of disinfectants, their benefits and drawbacks, and determining the appropriate concentrations for each.
- Methods of isolating different contaminants according to their type.
- Prevention of contamination and the use of personal protective equipment.
Workshop recommendations:
- Wash hands properly for no less than 20 seconds and use germicidal disinfectants such as alcohol.
- Segregate waste in color-coded bags according to type (general, paper, medical, sharp instruments).
- Handle biological contaminants (e.g., body fluids such as blood) with caution, sterilize them promptly, and use autoclaves or transfer them to designated incinerators.
- Use ovens for sterilizing glass and metal instruments, adhere to specified sterilization times, and package instruments after sterilization to keep them dry and prevent recontamination.
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