Why should wrapped trays not be stacked?

Wrapped trays should not be stacked primarily to prevent the potential damage that can occur to the trays, particularly due to pressure and weight distribution. When trays are stacked on top of one another, the bottom tray bears the weight of the others, which can lead to deformation or compromise the integrity of the materials, especially if they are made of fragile materials or are not designed to support significant weight.

If the bottom tray gets damaged, it may not provide the expected sterility or protection for the instruments or supplies inside. This compromise could lead to contamination issues and affect patient safety. While other factors, such as the risk of holes in the wrapper or the structural integrity of shelving, are valid concerns, the principal rationale for avoiding stacking is to maintain the condition of the trays and ensure that they remain viable for use in sterile processing.