New York Tattoo License Practice Test

What action should be taken after cleaning instruments in preparation for sterilization?

1. Dry them and store in a container

2. Throw them away

3. Use a wet towel to store them

4. Wrap them in plastic wrap

The correct answer is: Dry them and store in a container

After cleaning instruments in preparation for sterilization, the appropriate action is to dry them and store them in a container. This step is crucial because moisture on instruments can lead to ineffective sterilization and promote the growth of bacteria. Storing them in a container protects the instruments from contamination and ensures they remain clean until they are sterilized. A clean and dry environment is vital for maintaining the integrity of the instruments and preventing any form of compromise before the actual sterilization process takes place. Other methods, such as throwing instruments away or using a wet towel for storage, would introduce significant risks. Disposing of instruments unnecessarily increases waste and costs, while wet storage could lead to moisture retention, ultimately hindering the sterilization process. Therefore, drying and appropriately storing the instruments is the best practice to follow.