What must be done to all instruments before disinfecting?

All instruments must be washed in hot water with soap before disinfection to ensure they are free of visible debris, contaminants, and organic matter. This step is crucial because disinfectants can only be effective on clean surfaces. If instruments are not adequately cleaned, any remaining dirt or organic material can interfere with the disinfectant’s ability to kill pathogens. Using hot water and soap helps to break down and remove any residue effectively.

While other options may imply additional cleaning steps or alternative methods, they do not encompass the essential initial step of thoroughly washing instruments. Rinsing in cold water or soaking in alcohol is not adequate for removing all contaminants, and leaving instruments unwashed would pose significant health and safety risks. Therefore, washing the instruments properly is fundamental for safe and effective disinfection.