Why instruments must be cleaned before sterilization
CRCST practice question · Cleaning, Decontamination & Disinfection
Why must instruments be thoroughly cleaned before disinfection or sterilization?
- A. Disinfectants and sterilants only work on instruments that are wet with detergent
- B. Remaining organic soil can shield microorganisms and reduce the effectiveness of the disinfectant or sterilant
- C. Cleaning is needed only for appearance, since sterilization kills everything anyway
- D. Soil causes chemical indicators to change color early and give a false pass
Answer
B. Remaining organic soil can shield microorganisms and reduce the effectiveness of the disinfectant or sterilant
Blood, tissue, and biofilm protect microorganisms from contact with the disinfecting or sterilizing agent and can also inactivate chemicals. If an item is not clean, it cannot be reliably disinfected or sterilized. Cleaning is a safety requirement, not just an appearance step.
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