Which term is associated with the treatment of the physical environment to reduce contamination risks?

The term associated with the treatment of the physical environment to reduce contamination risks is infection control. Infection control encompasses a variety of practices and protocols designed to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings. This includes strategies such as surface cleaning, the use of protective barriers, and the implementation of policies that promote a safe and clean environment for both patients and healthcare workers.

Infection control focuses on minimizing the risk of transmission of infectious agents within the environment, thereby directly addressing contamination risks. This broader approach ensures that all factors contributing to the presence of pathogens are considered and managed effectively.

Other terms like sanitization and disinfection are more specific processes that refer to reducing or eliminating pathogens on surfaces or instruments, but do not encompass the full scope of managing the overall environment as infection control does. Environmental management, while related to maintaining a safe and clean environment, does not specifically focus on infection prevention in the same context as infection control.