Asepsis to reduce or eliminate contaminants (such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) from entering the operative field in surgery or medicine to prevent infection. Ideally, a field's "sterile" — free of all contaminants — a situation that's difficult to attain. However, elimination of infection's the goal of asepsis, not sterility. History The modern concept of asepsis evolved in the 19th century. Semmelweis showed that washing the hands prior to delivery reduced puerperal f… (More on Asepsis)