Prior to sterilization, loose contaminated instruments are processed in an ultrasonic cleaner in order to?

The correct answer highlights the primary function of an ultrasonic cleaner, which is to effectively remove large debris from contaminated instruments prior to further processing. Ultrasonic cleaning utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution, which implode and dislodge dirt, biofilm, blood, and debris from the surfaces of instruments. This step is crucial as it significantly enhances the cleaning process, ensuring that instruments are thoroughly cleaned before they undergo sterilization.

Once the instruments are free of visible contaminants, they can then be properly packaged for sterilization. It is important to note that while ultrasonic cleaners are part of the cleaning process, they do not sterilize instruments; sterilization involves the destruction of all forms of microbial life, which occurs in a separate step afterward. The ultrasonic cleaner prepares instruments for effective sterilization by ensuring that any remaining contaminants won’t interfere with the sterilization process.