What is the correct order of steps for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing reusable implements?

• A. Clean, disinfect, sterilize, dispose
• B. Disinfect, clean, sterilize, dispose
• C. Clean, disinfect, sterilize, dispose of single-use items
• D. Dispose of single-use items first

Answer: (C)

The sequence starts with removing debris and soils from the instrument, because clean surfaces allow disinfectants to work effectively. After cleaning, you apply disinfection to reduce the microbial load to safe levels. Only then do you proceed to sterilization, which eliminates all forms of life, including spores, on the reusable items. Finally, dispose of any single-use items separately, since they are not subjected to cleaning, disinfection, or sterilization and must be discarded after use. Choosing the option that follows clean → disinfect → sterilize and then dispose of single-use items aligns with how to safely handle reusable implements while properly separating single-use waste.