Which item should never be used to hold instruments together during sterilization?

Rubber bands should never be used to hold instruments together during sterilization due to their potential to degrade under high heat and pressure conditions typically found in sterilization processes. When subjected to the temperatures and moisture present during steam sterilization, rubber bands can break down, which may lead to the release of substances that can contaminate instruments, or they may lose their elasticity, causing instruments to become unorganized or even interfere with the sterilization process.

In contrast, metal clips, string ties, and tags are specifically designed to withstand the conditions of sterilization without compromising sterility or integrity. These materials are less likely to degrade and can effectively maintain the organization of instruments throughout the sterilization cycle.