Sterile Field Management Flashcards
7 cards from real CFA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Sterile Field Management flashcards as text
When transferring a sterile item using a transfer forceps, how should the forceps be stored between uses?
Answer: In a chemical disinfectant solution
Transfer forceps must be stored in a chemical disinfectant solution when not in use to maintain their sterility between transfers.
During a procedure, a scrubbed team member sneezes without being able to turn away. What is the required action?
Answer: Step back, turn away, and change the surgical mask before re-entering the sterile field
After a sneeze, the scrubbed person must step away, change their surgical mask, and re-scrub if necessary before returning to the sterile field.
Which principle governs why sterile persons should pass each other back-to-back?
Answer: To prevent their sterile fronts from contacting each other or non-sterile areas
Sterile persons pass back-to-back to protect their sterile front gown panels and gloves from inadvertent contact with each other or non-sterile surfaces.
A sterile drape has been placed on the OR table. A non-sterile person accidentally touches the top surface of the drape. What is the correct response?
Answer: Remove and replace the entire drape setup
Any drape touched by a non-sterile person must be replaced entirely, as partial redraping cannot guarantee the integrity of the sterile field.
Which statement about sterile field establishment timing is correct?
Answer: Sterile fields should be set up as close to the time of use as possible
Sterile fields should be established as close to the time of use as possible because the risk of contamination increases with time.
When the First Assistant opens a peel-pack sterile item for the scrub person, how should the item be presented?
Answer: Peel the package back and allow the item to drop or be retrieved by the scrub person
The circulator or First Assistant peels the package back securely and allows the sterile item to be flipped or retrieved by the scrubbed person without contamination.
What is the correct action if the First Assistant is unsure whether an item on the sterile field has been contaminated?
Answer: Treat the item as contaminated and remove it from the sterile field
When in doubt, an item must be considered contaminated and removed from the sterile field — 'if in doubt, throw it out' is a fundamental sterile technique principle.