What is the term of the sterile technique followed in the operating room?

The term "asepsis" refers specifically to the practices and procedures implemented to ensure that an environment is free from contamination by pathogens. In the context of the operating room, asepsis is crucial, as it aims to prevent infections during surgical procedures by maintaining a sterile field. This is achieved through various measures, including the use of sterile instruments, sterile drapes, gowns, and maintaining a controlled environment where airborne and contact contamination is minimized.

Antisepsis, while related, involves the application of antiseptics to living tissue to reduce the possibility of infection. Disinfection focuses on killing or inactivating pathogens on inanimate objects, but it doesn’t guarantee sterility. Sanitization refers to reducing the number of microorganisms to a level considered safe, typically in non-surgical environments.

Therefore, in the context of surgical procedures, asepsis is the most appropriate term to describe the strict protocols followed to ensure a sterile environment.