Which of the following is true about glutaraldehyde?

Glutaraldehyde is a high-level disinfectant that is commonly used in the medical field for sterilizing heat-sensitive instruments. One of the key aspects of using glutaraldehyde is that it can leave potentially harmful residues on medical instruments after disinfection. Therefore, it is crucial that items processed with glutaraldehyde are rinsed thoroughly with sterile water to remove any residual chemical before use on patients. This ensures that no harmful chemicals are introduced to the sterile field or the patient's body, thus promoting safety in the clinical environment.

Understanding the necessity of rinsing instruments reflects the importance of following safety protocols in sterile processing and highlights the potential risks associated with improper use and handling of disinfectants. This careful attention to detail helps maintain high standards of infection control in healthcare settings.