What is an incorrect statement regarding sterilizing unwrapped instruments?

The statement that unwrapped instruments must be cleaned and dried before sterilization is essential because any debris or moisture can hinder the effectiveness of the sterilization process. Thorough cleaning ensures the removal of all contaminants, which is crucial for achieving proper sterilization. If instruments are not cleaned beforehand, there is a risk that microorganisms or organic material can survive the sterilization process.

Mechanical indicators, which are typically used to confirm the functioning of the sterilization process (e.g., temperature and pressure), are important in the procedure. They help ensure that the sterilization conditions have been met but do not alone confirm sterilization. As for chemical indicators, they serve as a visual cue that the appropriate conditions for sterilization have been met. They react to certain conditions within the sterilization process, but relying solely on them without additional verification methods can be insufficient for ensuring safety. Critical items, by definition, have a high risk of infection if not properly sterilized, so they must be aseptically transferred to minimize contamination before use.