Which of the following is a consequence of inadequate cleaning of medical instruments?

Inadequate cleaning of medical instruments is a significant concern in healthcare settings, as it can lead to infection transmission. When instruments are not properly sterilized or cleaned, pathogens can remain on their surfaces. These pathogens can then be introduced into the body during medical procedures, potentially leading to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Such infections can have severe consequences for patients, including increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and even mortality.

Infection transmission is a critical aspect of patient safety and quality of care in medical practice. Therefore, maintaining strict protocols for the cleaning and sterilization of medical instruments is essential to prevent the spread of infections and protect patient health. This underscores the importance of diligent cleaning practices in healthcare environments.