Effective instrument decontamination is dependent on a particular sequence designed to lower bioburden to the lowest level.What is the first step in processing a basic set of laparotomy instruments through decontamination?
A) Rinse with cold water.
B) Remove and discard all disposable sharps.
C) Wipe instruments with sterile water during surgical procedure.
D) Transport in closed container to decontamination area.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Contaminated instruments should be transported to and cleaned only in a dedicated decontamination area.If sharps are being transported,the container should be puncture-resistant.In the decontamination area,an initial cold-water rinse with tap water or a soak in cool water with a protein-dissolving and blood-dissolving enzyme helps remove blood,tissue,and gross debris from device lumens,joints,and serrations.After completion of this pretreatment,the instruments should be processed in a mechanical washer or manually washed if a mechanical system is not available or if the device cannot tolerate mechanical washing.

Effective Instrument Decontamination Is Dependent on a Particular Sequence Designed