Instruments that cannot be cleaned immediately should be placed in what?

Instruments that cannot be cleaned immediately should be placed in a pre-cleaning or enzyme solution. This type of solution is specifically designed to break down and loosen organic matter, biofilm, and debris from the surfaces of instruments, allowing for more effective cleaning at a later time. The enzymatic properties help to prevent the material from drying on the instruments, which can make subsequent cleaning more difficult and less effective.

Using a pre-cleaning solution is important for maintaining proper infection control practices, as it minimizes the risk of contamination associated with dried blood or other biological materials. This step is crucial in ensuring that instruments are thoroughly disinfected and sterilized once they are cleaned properly, thereby upholding patient safety and health standards in a dental setting.