Preparation should be done before removal of instruments from the point of use and should include

removing scalpel blades and sharp items
visual inspection of instruments for damage, hazards, or wear (e.g., diminished function or sharpness)
removing (e.g., wiping, flushing, soaking) soil, debris, and bioburden
opening and separating instruments
spraying with enzymatic detergent or covering with moist towel
covering or placing instruments in the appropriate container, according to industry standards and manufacturer guidelines
loading and transporting instruments to the appropriate decontamination area.

Process/Skill Questions:

At what point should you remove bioburden from instruments?
With what should you soak the instruments?
What would you do if you found a broken instrument?
Who is responsible for conducting an inventory of instruments before they leave the operating room? What does inventory control entail?
What is the procedure for identifying missing or damaged instruments?
Who would report damaged or broken instruments? And to whom?