What is a common consequence of inadequate cleaning before sterilization?

Inadequate cleaning before sterilization can lead to the persistence of biofilm and microorganisms on instruments and surfaces. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and are embedded in a protective matrix, making them significantly more resistant to sterilization processes. If cleaning is insufficient, these microorganisms can survive the sterilization process, thereby undermining the effectiveness of sterilization and posing a risk of infection to patients when these instruments are reused.

The survival of biofilms and microorganisms can lead to a higher incidence of healthcare-associated infections, which can have serious implications for patient safety and healthcare outcomes. Proper cleaning is essential because it reduces the bioburden, allowing for a more effective sterilization process that ensures instruments are safe for use in clinical procedures.