Surgical Asepsis and Sterility Flashcards

When opening a sterile package, which action correctly maintains sterility?

Answer: Open the far flap first, then the sides, then the near flap

Opening the far flap first prevents reaching over the sterile field, then sides, and finally the near flap toward the body.

A scrub person notices a small hole in a sterile gown during donning. What is the appropriate action?

Answer: Discard the gown and obtain an intact sterile gown

Any breach in gown integrity compromises the sterile barrier; the gown must be discarded and replaced.

Which zone of a sterile-draped table is considered the sterile field boundary?

Answer: The top surface only; the sides and drape edges hanging below are unsterile

The sterile field includes only the top surface of the draped table; hanging edges and sides below the table level are considered contaminated.

Steam sterilization using the gravity displacement cycle is most appropriate for which items?

Answer: Items that can withstand high heat and moisture

Gravity displacement steam sterilization is suitable for heat- and moisture-tolerant items such as metal instruments and textiles.

After a sterile package falls on the floor, the scrub person should:

Answer: Consider it contaminated and discard it

Any item that falls to the floor is considered contaminated regardless of visible soiling or intact packaging.

Which action by a circulator is correct when adding sterile solution to a sterile field?

Answer: Pour from a height of 6 inches or less to avoid splashing

Pouring from a height of 6 inches or less prevents splashing that could contaminate the sterile field.

A sterile team member must move around the sterile field. The safest method is to:

Answer: Face the sterile field at all times while moving

Sterile team members must always face the sterile field to maintain visualization and prevent accidental contamination.