Preparation of Medical Equipment and Supplies

  Over the last month, the operating room has received rigid containers without filters, assembled instruments in sterilized sets, and closed versus open packaged and processed instruments. Why are all three of these occurrences an issue? Discuss the instrument preparation process. What can the sterile processing technician do to ensure that all items are prepared and packaged correctly? What might the operating room staff have to do if items are received closed, assembled, or without the appropriate filters, chemical indicators, etc.? How can it affect the patient if those items are used?