Which of the following is NOT an important infection control practice in dental nursing?

The use of expired instruments is not an important infection control practice in dental nursing because utilizing instruments that have surpassed their expiration dates can significantly compromise safety and effectiveness. Expired instruments may not function properly, may have reduced efficacy in sterilization, or may harbor bacteria if they were not stored correctly before expiration. In contrast, hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, and proper sterilization of materials are all fundamental practices in infection control that help prevent the spread of pathogens. These practices are crucial in maintaining a safe environment for both dental professionals and patients, ensuring that dental procedures do not transmit infections.