Infection ControlQuestion 63 of 100
Why is an ultrasonic cleaner or instrument washer preferred over hand scrubbing contaminated instruments?
a.It eliminates the need for sterilization afterward
b.It allows instruments to be packaged while still wet
c.It reduces the risk of percutaneous injury by limiting direct handling of sharp contaminated instruments
d.It is the only method that removes cement and impression material
Explanation
Mechanical cleaning is preferred because the operator handles sharp contaminated instruments far less, which lowers the risk of a puncture injury and exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Cleaning is a preparatory step and never substitutes for sterilization. Instruments must be rinsed and dried before packaging, and hand scrubbing with a long-handled brush is still sometimes needed for stubborn set materials.
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