Instruments should be handled as though contaminated until processed
through the sterilization cycle (unless the instrument has been processed with
a thermal washer/disinfector that has a high-level disinfection cycle). To avoid
injury from sharp instruments, personnel should wear puncture-resistant,
heavy-duty utility gloves when handling or manually cleaning contaminated
instruments and devices. Because splashing is likely to occur, they should also
wear a face mask, eye protection or face shield, and gown or jacket. Employees
should not reach into trays or containers holding sharp instruments that cannot
be seen. To reduce their risk of injury, they should instead remove instruments
using forceps or empty them onto a towel.
l protective equipment is necessary when cleaning instruments and surfaces?
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