Where should contaminated instruments be placed before cleaning?

• A. Place contaminated instruments directly onto the counter.
• B. Transport in a sealed bag to the cleaning area.
• C. Soak in plain water before cleaning.
• D. In an empty basin and cover with a cotton towel.

Answer: (D)

Contamination control is the focus here: you want to move dirty instruments to cleaning without letting pathogens spread. Using an empty basin creates a defined, contained space that keeps any fluids from contacting work surfaces or other items. Covering the basin with a cotton towel adds a second layer of protection by reducing splash or aerosol exposure and by providing a soft surface to handle the instruments without direct contact. This setup makes it easier to transport the dirty instruments to the cleaning area safely and clearly signals that cleaning is required. Placing items directly on the counter risks spreading contamination to surfaces and other supplies.