Final answer:
The first step in flash sterilization of an instrument is to clean it thoroughly, ensuring all organic matter is removed prior to the autoclave process. Option A is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step to take when an instrument needs to be flash sterilized is A) Clean the instrument thoroughly. Before the sterilization process, it is crucial that all organic matter is removed from the instrument, as it can interfere with the steam's ability to kill microorganisms. Flash sterilization typically refers to a rapid sterilization cycle used for immediate turnaround in operating rooms, and it involves placing the cleaned, wrapped instrument into an autoclave that uses moist-heat sterilization.
During this process, high temperatures of around 121 °C to 132 °C at pressures between 15 and 20 psi are applied to ensure that even the most resistant microorganisms, such as endospores, are killed, achieving a high probability of complete sterilization.
Proper cleaning, wrapping, and sterilization help maintain an aseptic work environment, which is essential when working with sterile equipment in medical settings.