What does the term 'limited use' indicate about medical instruments?

• A. They can be reused indefinitely
• B. They are intended for one-time use only
• C. They may be used a certain number of times before being discarded
• D. They are suitable for all patient types

Answer: (C)

The term 'limited use' in the context of medical instruments indicates that these instruments are designed to be used a specific number of times before they should be discarded. This classification is important because it helps healthcare professionals understand the lifespan and safe usage limits of instruments, ensuring patient safety and instrument efficacy.

In practice, limited use instruments are typically sterilized and reprocessed after each use, but there comes a point when repeated exposure to usage, sterilization, and wear may compromise their integrity or effectiveness. By clearly defining 'limited use,' it promotes responsible usage and reinforces infection control measures in clinical settings.

The other options do not align with the concept of 'limited use': instruments that can be reused indefinitely suggest an unlimited lifespan which is not true for limited use; those intended for one-time use only imply no potential for reuse; and suitability for all patient types does not relate to the instrument's use or reusability. Hence, the term 'limited use' specifically conveys the idea of a finite period for which the instrument can be safely utilized.