What is the purpose of pre-cleaning in infection control?

The purpose of pre-cleaning in infection control is to remove soil before disinfection. This process is critical because it ensures that surfaces and instruments are free from debris, organic material, and contaminants that can interfere with the effectiveness of disinfectants. When surfaces are adequately pre-cleaned, it allows the disinfectant to penetrate more effectively and reduce the risk of infection. Inadequate pre-cleaning can hinder the disinfection process, potentially leaving harmful pathogens on surfaces or instruments.

Disinfecting surfaces is a subsequent step that follows pre-cleaning, and sterilization is a more advanced process that involves eliminating all forms of microbial life, which is not the main focus of pre-cleaning. Storing instruments safely is important for infection control but is not directly related to the cleaning and disinfection process. Thus, the emphasis on removing soil before disinfection highlights the necessity of pre-cleaning as a foundational step in maintaining a safe and hygienic environment.