At the end of each surgical case, what should the surgical technologist do with the instruments?

At the end of each surgical case, it is essential for the surgical technologist to properly handle instruments to ensure they are clean and ready for sterilization. Rinsing blood off the instruments with sterile water is crucial because it helps prevent the coagulation of blood on the surfaces, which can make cleaning more difficult and ineffective later in the sterilization process. This step aids in maintaining the integrity of the instruments and prepares them for thorough cleaning and disinfection, ensuring that they are safe for future use.

Instruments that have residual blood or bodily fluids can harbor pathogens, so rinsing them helps mitigate the risk of infection. It also ensures that all instruments are accounted for and in optimal condition for the next procedure, aligning with best practices in surgical instrument management. Proper initial care can extend the life of the instruments and ensures adherence to sterilization protocols.