The risk of harm to patients from surgical site infections (SSIs) can be decreased by ensuring that all surgical instruments are free of contamination at the time of use. Evidence-based practice is the foundation of patient safety and many standards and recommendations for practice have been developed for instrument sterilization, including immediate use steam sterilization (IUSS). There are known challenges involved with following best practices and guidelines to perform sterilization of instruments for immediate use; however, when performed correctly and appropriately, IUSS can be extremely effective. The Joint Commission (TJC) has received extensive education and updated their survey process to align with leading evidence on IUSS and will hold accredited hospitals to these standards. This educational activity will review the essential concepts and role of perioperative personnel in IUSS as it applies to surgical instruments. Industry leading standards and guidelines will be discussed and key practices for adherence to evidence- based practices will be explained.