Chipped plating can trap dirt and can also damage tissue and rubber gloves when used, if not cleaned properly. Plated instruments should be checked to make sure there are no chips, worn spots, or sharp edges. Any instruments with pins or screws should be inspected to make sure they are intact.

Ratchets should close easily and hold firmly. Tips should be properly aligned, jaws should meet perfectly, and joints should move easily. Hinged instruments such as clamps and forceps should be checked for stiffness and alignment of jaws and teeth. There should be no dull spots, chips, or dents. Instruments with cutting edges such as scissors, rongeurs, chisels, curettes, etc., should be checked for sharpness. Damaged surfaces not only allow dirt and bacteria to collect, but can also be potentially dangerous for both medical staff and patients.Д«ox locks, serrations, and crevices should be critically inspected for cleanliness. Instruments subjected to rough handling will develop scratches and roughened surfaces over time, which will trap and hold dirt. The condition of the instrument has a significant effect on how adequately it can be cleaned. A visual check for cleanliness and dryness should be made for all items washed, as part of the decontamination process, before being packaged for reuse or storage.

The importance of inspecting each instrument cannot be overemphasized. After cleaning, all instruments should undergo inspection before being packaged for reuse or storage.

Surgical instruments quiz