What is NOT a step in the instrument processing sequence?

The processing sequence of dental instruments is critical to infection control and involves several specific steps to ensure that instruments are properly sterilized and safe for patient use. The steps typically include cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, storage, and delivery to the operatory.

While preparation is an important part of the overall workflow in a dental practice, it is not classified as a step in the instrument processing sequence itself. Preparation may involve familiarizing oneself with the instruments needed for a procedure or ensuring that the work area is organized, but it does not directly relate to the processing sequence, which emphasizes the specific steps of cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, storage, and delivery.

The other steps mentioned—cleaning, storage, and delivery—are crucial components of the instrument processing sequence. Cleaning ensures that debris is removed from instruments, storage keeps them in a safe and sterile condition until needed, and delivery involves transporting the sterilized instruments to the treatment area for use. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective infection control practices in dental settings.