DecontaminationQuestion 2 of 100
A new employee asks why the department never uses saline to soak or moisten soiled surgical instruments. What is the correct explanation?
a.It neutralizes enzymatic detergent and stops protein breakdown
b.The chloride ions attack the passive layer and cause pitting and corrosion
c.It raises the pH of the soak bath above the safe range for stainless steel
d.It coagulates protein soil onto the instrument surface
Explanation
Sodium chloride breaks down the chromium oxide passive layer that protects stainless steel, producing pitting, staining, and eventual instrument failure. Water with an appropriate presoak or enzymatic product is the correct choice. Protein coagulation is caused by heat, not saline, and pH shift is not the mechanism of chloride damage.
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