What is the required processing sequence for metal manicure and pedicure tools?

• A. Cleaned, disinfected, sterilized
• B. Cleaned, sterilized, disinfected
• C. Sterilized, disinfected, cleaned
• D. Disinfected, cleaned, sterilized

Answer: (A)

The order starts with cleaning to remove debris, oils, and other organic matter. This step is essential because any residue can shield microbes and interfere with the effectiveness of the next stages. After cleaning, disinfection reduces the surface microbial load to safe levels using an appropriate disinfectant with the proper contact time. Finally, sterilization is applied to kill all forms of microbial life, including spores, ensuring the tools are completely sterile for use in procedures that penetrate the skin. If you skip cleaning, disinfection and sterilization may not work properly; and if you skip disinfection before sterilization, you may not achieve the lowest possible bioburden before the final step.