Surgical NursingDifficulty 3/5
While opening a pack, the circulating technician's sleeve passes directly over the open sterile field. What is the consequence?
- AThe field remains sterile because no direct contact with the drape occurred
- BThe field is contaminated and the affected items must be replaced
- CThe field is usable if the area passed over is covered with a sterile towel
- DThe field remains sterile provided the sleeve was clean and freshly laundered
Show answer and rationale
Correct: B. Passing non-sterile material over an open sterile field contaminates it, regardless of contact. The affected items are replaced rather than covered.
- A — Contamination does not require contact when non-sterile material passes over the field.
- C — Covering contamination does not restore sterility.
- D — Laundered clothing is clean, not sterile.