What should be done to instruments used for procedures before they are used again?

Instruments used for procedures require thorough decontamination before they can be safely used again. This process is critical to remove all organic and inorganic matter, including blood, tissue, and other contaminants that may be present after use. Decontamination not only helps to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare personnel but also ensures that the instruments are in a suitable state for the next procedure.

Decontamination is typically performed through cleaning techniques, which may involve manual scrubbing or mechanical cleaning methods such as ultrasonic cleaners, followed by high-level disinfection or sterilization processes depending on the intended use of the instruments.

While testing for functionality, lubricating, and polishing instruments are important aspects of maintaining instrument performance and appearance, these steps cannot take place until the instruments are thoroughly decontaminated. Performing these tasks on contaminated instruments could pose a risk of infection or cross-contamination. Therefore, the primary focus before reusing any surgical instruments is to ensure they have been properly decontaminated.