Should a specific, well-defined area be designated for instrument processing?
A If possible, instruments should be cleaned and sterilized in an area designated for that purpose. If a lack of space prohibits this scenario, establish a clearly defined location for holding and processing contaminated instruments and devices. Ensure that this area is physically separated from the area where clean instruments are stored. If instruments must be decontaminated in patient treatment areas, don’t seat the next patient until all instrument processing has been completed and the area has been cleaned and disinfected.
