Which practice is recommended during the decontamination of used surgical instruments?

Disassembling instruments during the decontamination process is recommended as it facilitates a thorough cleaning of all components. Surgical instruments often have joints, hinges, and multiple parts that can trap blood, tissue, and other contaminants. Taking the instruments apart allows for effective cleaning and ensures that all surfaces, especially those that are not readily accessible when the instruments are assembled, are properly decontaminated.

Increased attention to detail during this step is vital for preventing transmission of infections in the perioperative setting. Proper disassembly can also help in the identification of any damage or wear that might require repair before the instruments can be safely reused.

Other practices mentioned are not recommended; using hot water alone may not effectively break down organic matter, and rinsing with alcohol is insufficient for thorough decontamination. Storing instruments while they are still dirty poses a significant risk for infection and cross-contamination. Therefore, disassembling instruments is essential for achieving optimal decontamination.