Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare for aseptic sampling or transfer
- Use specified personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Prepare the work area for safe and effective sample transfer
- Select equipment and materials specified by the procedure
- Organise equipment to minimise contamination during manipulations
- Label containers for clear identification
- Record details in relevant log or database
- Macroscopically assess media and/or reagents to confirm sterility before use
- Transfer materials aseptically
- Sterilise inoculating loops and/or pipette where used to prevent contamination
- Perform transfer while minimising opportunities for contamination and cross-infection
- Protect the integrity of the sample source and destination after transfer, and before sealing the transport or culture vessel
- Re-sterilise inoculating loops, minimising the generation of aerosols as required
- Perform quality control checks to confirm aseptic transfer was successful
- Label transport or culture vessels for clear identification
- Maintain work area and equipment to prevent cross-infection and contamination
- Clean and disinfect work area and equipment after use
- Transport disposable and reusable contaminated materials to relevant areas for disinfection, sterilisation and cleaning or disposal
- Follow personal hygiene procedures