Which lubricant cannot be used for surgical instruments?

Water-based lubricants are not recommended for use on surgical instruments because they can evaporate quickly and may not provide the long-lasting protection needed to prevent rust and corrosion on the instruments. Surgical instruments must remain dry to ensure they maintain sterility, and water-based lubricants can lead to moisture retention, which can compromise the sterility of the instruments and promote the growth of bacteria.

In contrast, oil-based, grease-based, and petroleum-based lubricants provide a protective barrier that helps to lubricate and protect instruments from corrosion and wear while remaining effective during sterilization processes. These lubricants are often formulated specifically for medical instruments to ensure compatibility with required sterilization methods.