The purpose of this educational activity is to provide information on care and handling of surgical instruments in an effort to enhance patient care and safety. The focus of this self- study activity is to review the process beginning with point of use care and ending with quality control methods. The application of recommended instrument handling and maintenance procedures are critical to ensure the long life of surgical instruments. Guidelines for the care and maintenance of surgical instruments are provided, along with recommendations for the proper handling of these items. Methods for the decontamination, sterilization, and high-level disinfection of surgical instruments are discussed in detail. A posttest will provide an opportunity for immediate feedback regarding your grasp of the information presented.