What does traceability in instrument decontamination involve and why is it essential?

• A. Traceability tracks instruments within the decontamination area only.
• B. Traceability tracks instruments from decontamination back to the patient and procedure; essential for QA, recalls, root-cause analysis.
• C. Traceability is about labeling instruments with the date only.
• D. Traceability is not necessary in modern practice.

Answer: (B)