sterile technique

mrsboots87 · Dec 8, 2014

I was taught nothing can touch only the outer inch of the field. If you were taught 2 inches then yes, anything that touches the outer 2 inches is considered contaminated and can't be used. If you are opening a kit, then only the item that touched the outer edge is contaminated and in need of replacement. If you are dropping items into a sterile field and one item touches the outer edge, only that item needs to be replaced. If it's just your gloves that touch the outer edge, then just get new gloves. Everything in the sterile field that hasn't touched the outer edge of the field is still sterile and can stil be used. You would either have to bring extra supplies with you for just in case, or have an aid or other nurse go grab another of whatever was contaminated.

mrsboots87 · Dec 8, 2014

Also, if you contaminate part of your sterile field drape, you can just fold it under and then the inch (or 2) from that new outer edge is the new contamination area and the rest of the sterile drape is still sterile. If you contaminate the middle of the sterile field you will need to start over.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Dec 11, 2014

I am opening a sterile field and noticed that the item touched the drape 2 inches from the border of the drape. what should I do next redo the sterile procedure again? Im confused sorry please explain. Thanks

What item?

strawberryluv, BSN, RN · Dec 11, 2014

I was told that the outer 1-inch was not sterile, if its two inches from the outer edge than I guess its okay...

it depends.

NuGuyNurse2b · Dec 11, 2014

our school teaches us the 1-inch border also, move further inland (like 2 inches) and it's considered contaminated.

Bubbly26, BSN, RN · Dec 12, 2014

My school taught us 1 inch border. Anything over that one inch contaminates the field.

bplantz · Dec 13, 2014

When in doubt - throw it out. If you're feeling uneasy about it I would start over with a new kit. Better to be safe than sorry!