Final answer:
Dirty patient items should be stored in a designated contamination control area to prevent cross-contamination and are typically held there before decontamination and sterilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dirty patient items, which refer to any medical devices or materials that become contaminated after use with patients, should be stored in a designated contamination control area. This area is typically separate from clean and sterile areas to prevent cross-contamination. After use, these items may have a biofilm of microorganisms. An electron micrograph example shows Staphylococcus aureus bacteria forming a biofilm on an in-dwelling catheter. Similar biofilms can be seen in common environments, such as the inside of a garbage can used to collect rainwater that was observed to have a green biofilm on its sides.
The contamination control area should be properly labeled and might include specific containers or carts for the temporary holding of used items before they undergo decontamination, cleaning, and sterilization processes. These practices help in maintaining a sanitary environment and preventing healthcare-associated infections.