During a minor surgical procedure, the provider has just completed the incision and requests a retractor. Prior to handing the provider the instrument, which of the following is the most critical action the medical assistant should perform?
Wipe the instrument with an antiseptic solution to ensure it is clean.
Check that the instrument's packaging has a color change indicating it has been appropriately sterilized.
Ensure the instrument is handed to the provider with the tip pointed downwards.
Confirm that the retractor is the correct size requested by the provider.