Sterilize - "defined as the process where all the living microorganisms, including bacterial spores are killed.
Sterilization can be achieved by physical, chemical and physiochemical means. Chemicals used as sterilizing
agents are called chemisterilants."
Disinfection - "the process of elimination of most pathogenic microorganisms (excluding bacterial spores) on
inanimate objects. Disinfection can be achieved by physical or chemical methods. Chemicals used in disinfection
are called disinfectants. Different disinfectants have different target ranges, not all disinfectants can kill all
microorganisms. Some methods of disinfection such as filtration do not kill bacteria, they separate them out.
Sterilization is an absolute condition while disinfection is not. The two are not synonymous."
Sanitization -"the process of chemical or mechanical cleansing, applicable in public health systems. Usually used
by the food industry. It reduces microbes on eating utensils to safe, acceptable levels for public health."
In a healthcare setting such as a hospital things are subject to sterilization, sanitation and or disenfection as required for use. OR instruments and or anything that enters to body must be sterile. OTHO things like bed pans, bed railings, dishes etc are made sanitary. However if something has come into contact say with a person that has a serious infectious disease the items will be cleaned and disenfected if not simply disposed of instead of reusing.
