After completing this study guide and viewing the accompanying video, the perioperative registered nurse (RN) and other perioperative team members will have increased their knowledge of evidence-based, best practices for sterilizing surgical instruments. The perioperative RN and other health care team members will be able to apply these practices in the clinical setting to help minimize the risk for infections and to promote patient safety.

Upon completion of this activity, the participant should be able to:

• Use the Spaulding classification to determine the required level of processing for reusable surgical instruments
• Remove gross soil from reusable surgical instruments and devices at the point of use
• Describe methods for sterilizing instruments
• Address health concerns related to exposure to sterilizing agents
• Transport and store sterilized instruments