Joseph Lister & Antiseptic

• When were antiseptics discovered?

  1867
• What did Lister discover?

  carbolic acid killed the bacteria in open wounds
• What did Lister recommend doctors and nurses do before operations?

  Wash hands in carbolic acid
• What should bandages and ligatures be soaked in according to Lister's methods?

  Carbolic acid
• What was the purpose of using a carbolic spray in Lister's methods?

  To clean the area of operation
• What was the impact of Lister's methods on the death rate in his operations?

  It fell from 46% to 15%
• What are the key components of Lister's methods that led to aseptic surgery?

  • Thorough cleaning of operating theatres before and after surgery
  • Frequent cleaning of other areas of a hospital
  • Surgeons wearing sterilised gowns, masks, and gloves
  • All surgical instruments sterilised using steam
• What is the significance of Lister's methods in surgery?

  They led to aseptic surgery