Sterile Field Rules
How wide is the contaminated border around a sterile field?
1 inch
You just turned your back on sterile field... what happens?
Field becomes contaminated!
Which flap of the sterile pack do you open first?
The flap that opens away from you
What is sterile conscience?
Awareness and commitment to maintaining sterility at all times
When inserting a foley catheter, which aspectic technique is required?
Surgical asepsis (sterile)
What part of the sterile drape is considered unsterile?
Anything below table level
A sterile glove touches your sleeve - what should you do?
Replace the contaminated glove
How should you hold a sterile liquid bottle when pouring?
Label against the palm, 4-6 in above the field
What should you do if you see a coworker break sterile field?
Speak up and correct the break immediately
True or false: you use sterile technique when changing a simple dressing.
False - clean technique is used unless wound is sterile.
What happens if a sterile becomes wet?
It is considered CONTAMINATED!
You drop sterile forceps on the floor... what now?
Consider them contaminated. Replace them.
What must you check before opening any sterile package?
Expiration date and the sterilization tape indicator
Why is sterile conscience important in nursing?
Prevents infection and promotes patient safety
When caring for a central line, which aspetic method is required?
Surgical asepsis
Can a sterile item remain sterile if left exposed to air for a long time?
No - exposure to air contaminates it
You see condensation inside a sterile pack. What does that mean?
The pack is not sterile
Where should your gloved hands remain while working sterile?
Above the waist and below shoulders, within the safety zone!
During a procedure you start doubting sterility. What do you do?
Stop and re-establish sterility. When in doubt - throw it out!
Give one example of a situation that requires sterile technique.
cath, central line, surgery, sterile wound dressing changes...
Who can touch sterile items on the sterile field?
Only individuals wearing sterile gloves and gowns
You see someone reach over sterile field. What should you do?
Stop the procedure and re-establish sterility.
If you realize you contaminated the field, what’s your next step?
Stop and re-create a new sterile field.
How can stress or rushing affect sterile conscience?
Increases risk of errors and contaminiation
When giving an IM injection, do you use surgical or medical asepsis?
Medical asepsis