Which action would help prevent cross-contamination between tissue specimens during processing?

• A. Using older forceps
• B. Not cleaning instruments between specimens
• C. Better cleaning of forceps between specimens
• D. Using a rotary microtome instead of an ultramicrotome

Answer: (C)

Preventing cross-contamination comes from instrument hygiene between specimens. Forceps and other tools can pick up tissue fragments, dyes, or other residues from one block and carry them to the next if they aren’t cleaned. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of forceps between specimens removes these residues, reducing the chance that material from one specimen contaminates another.

Older forceps aren’t inherently safer; they can harbor residues more stubbornly and may be harder to clean, which can actually raise the risk. Not cleaning instruments between specimens obviously increases contamination risk. The choice between using a rotary microtome or an ultramicrotome isn’t about preventing cross-contamination in routine processing; cleaning between specimens is the direct, effective control.