What should be done before applying disinfection to instruments?

Before applying disinfection to instruments, it is essential to pre-clean them to remove soil. This step is crucial because any organic matter, such as blood, saliva, or tissue, can inhibit the effectiveness of the disinfectant. Disinfectants are designed to work on clean surfaces, and if debris is present, it may create a barrier that prevents the disinfectant from adequately killing harmful microorganisms.

Pre-cleaning typically involves using soap and water or appropriate cleaning agents to wash the instruments and then rinsing them to ensure that any contaminants are effectively removed. This process not only enhances the efficacy of the disinfection but also helps in maintaining the instruments in good condition for future use. The omission of pre-cleaning can lead to ineffective disinfection and potentially pose a risk of infection transmission.