Oregon Written Tattoo Practice Test

What must happen to instruments prior to sterilization?

1. Washed with warm water

2. Sanitized with Madacide

3. Brushed and/or swabbed to remove foreign material and/or debris

4. Soaked in alcohol

The correct answer is: Brushed and/or swabbed to remove foreign material and/or debris

For effective sterilization, it is crucial that instruments are thoroughly prepared to ensure that all contaminants are removed. The process of brushing and/or swabbing instruments to eliminate foreign material and debris is essential because any remaining organic matter can protect harmful pathogens from the sterilization process. If instruments are not clean prior to sterilization, the heat or chemicals used may not penetrate effectively, compromising the sterilization outcome. While washing instruments with warm water, sanitizing with solutions like Madacide, or soaking in alcohol can be part of a broader cleaning and sanitization protocol, these methods do not specifically address the need to physically remove all visible debris and contaminants as efficiently as brushing and/or swabbing does. Without this critical initial step, the effectiveness of the subsequent sterilization process is at risk.