What is one of the main goals of point-of-use preparation and transport?

The main goal of point-of-use preparation and transport is to prevent cross-contamination. This practice involves preparing and transporting instruments and equipment in a manner that minimizes the risk of spreading pathogens or contaminants from one item to another or from the environment to the instruments.

By focusing on point-of-use preparation, the staff ensures that instruments are cleaned and organized immediately after use, rather than allowing potential contaminants to settle or accumulate during transport. This not only protects the integrity of the instrument but also safeguards patient safety in the healthcare environment.

While returning instruments to Central Service and speeding up the decontamination process may seem beneficial, they do not directly address the primary concern of maintaining a sterile environment through proper handling. Therefore, the emphasis on preventing cross-contamination is a crucial element of effective point-of-use preparation and transport.