Which procedure must always follow sterilization of dental instruments?

Packaging for storage is essential following the sterilization of dental instruments because it protects the instruments from contamination after they have been sterilized. Proper packaging ensures that once the instruments are sterilized, they remain in a sterile state until they are needed for use. The packaging also allows for easy identification and organization of the instruments when retrieved for future procedures, helping to maintain a sterile environment in the dental office.

While inspecting for defects is important, it typically occurs before sterilization to ensure all instruments are functioning correctly and safe for use. Documenting the sterilization process is critical for quality control and regulatory compliance but is not a step that must immediately follow sterilization. Cleaning the sterilizer itself is an important maintenance task, but it generally relates to routine upkeep rather than being a procedure that directly follows each sterilization cycle.