An aerobic Gram-negative bacillus commonly isolated from the hospital environment (especially intensive care units) and hospitalised patients; can cause healthcare-associated infections, especially wound infections and pneumonia.

Microscopic particles < 5 µm in size that are the residue of evaporated droplets and are produced when a person coughs, sneezes, shouts, or sings. These particles can remain suspended in the air for prolonged periods of time and can be carried on normal air currents in a room or beyond, to adjacent spaces or areas receiving exhaust air.

A set of practices used for patients known or suspected to be infected with agents transmitted person-to-person by the airborne route.

A TGA-registered alcohol-containing preparation designed for reducing the number of viable microorganisms on the hands without the use or aid of running water and which is included on the ARTG as a medicinal product.

A small room leading from a corridor into a room.

The result of a laboratory testing for the sensitivity of an isolated bacterial strain to different antibiotics.

A substance that kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi or parasites.

The use of chemical or physical methods to prevent infection by destroying or inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.

‘Freedom from infection or infectious (pathogenic) material'.

An aseptic technique aims to prevent microorganisms on hands, surfaces and equipment from being introduced to susceptible sites. Therefore, unlike sterile techniques, aseptic techniques can be achieved in typical ward and home settings.