Chapter 14:8 Using Sterile Techniques

Once gloves have been applied, where should you hold your hands to avoid contamination?

Away from the body and above the waist

Three methods for removing sterile articles from wraps and plain them on a sterile field or tray. Briefly describe each method

Drop technique is used for gauze pads, dressing, and small items. The wrapper is partially open and held upside down over the sterile field. The item drops out of the wrapper and onto the sterile field Mitten technique is used for bowls, drapes, linen, and other similar items. Wrapper is opened and its loose ends are grasped around the wrist with the opposite hand. A mitten is formed around the hand, the item can then be placed in a sterile tray Transfer forceps are used for cotton balls, small items, or articles that cannot be removed by the drop or mitten techniques

Define sterile Define contaminated

Free from all organisms, including spores and viruses Organisms and pathogens are present

What should you do if you spill solution on a sterile field?

It would be considered contaminated and should be cleaned immediately with sterile towels

Before applying the sterile gloves, you must make sure what has been done in relation to the sterile tray?

Open and you are ready to do the sterile procedure before putting the sterile gloves on your hands

Why must a sterile field be kept dry?

So it does not get contaminated which would then contaminate the item

What should you do if you suspect an article is contaminated?

Start over

How can you avoid allowing sterile articles to touch the skin or clothing?

Sterile articles must be held away from and in front of the body and above the waist

What part of a sterile field or tray is considered to be contaminated?

The 2-inch border

What part of sterile gloves are considered contaminated?

The inside