Operating Room Terminal Cleaning: Standardized Protocol for Infection Prevention

Terminal Cleaning Procedure (Post‑Case)

Performed after every surgical procedure to eliminate contaminants and restore sterility.

1. Preparation: Remove all instruments, drapes, waste. Restrict OR entry.
2. Gross Decontamination: Wipe visible soil, blood, tissue with disinfectant.
3. Thorough Cleaning: All surfaces (walls, floor, ceiling, lights, tables, equipment) with EPA‑registered detergent‑disinfectant and microfiber. Focus on high‑touch points.
4. Disinfection: Apply sporicidal agent (per label contact time) to all cleaned surfaces.
5. Rinsing: Sterile water rinse to remove chemical residue.
6. Drying: Sterile towels or HEPA‑filtered air dry.
7. Equipment Reprocessing: Instruments → decontam → sterile processing (per AAMI ST79).
8. Verification: Visual inspection + ATP bioluminescence or microbial culture per policy.
9. Documentation: Sign‑off in OR log / EHR with time, personnel, findings.

Critical Success Factors

• Standardized checklist
• Trained environmental services staff
• Adequate contact times
• Turnover time pressure never compromises steps

Rigorous terminal cleaning reduces surgical site infections (SSIs) and protects subsequent patients.