Distribution should occur after the sterilization process and include
- allowing instruments to cool and dry when they first come out of the autoclave
- preserving the integrity of the sterile package using carriers and dust covers
- determining the proper location for storage and retrieval
- applying first-in, first-out (FIFO) principles.
Process/Skill Questions:
- To what temperature should instruments be cooled before they are stored?
- What are the environmental requirements for the storage area?
- How are instruments reprocessed when sterility has been compromised?
- What is event-related sterility?