Sterile Technique and Infection Control Flashcards

When opening a sterile package, which flap should be opened first?

Answer: The flap furthest away from you

To maintain sterility, the flap furthest away should be opened first. This prevents the non-sterile arm and body from reaching over the sterile field that is being created. Subsequent flaps are opened to the sides and then the final flap is pulled towards yourself.

Which part of a sterile surgical gown is considered non-sterile?

Answer: The neckline and back of the gown

The sterile area of a gown includes the front from the chest to the level of the sterile field, and the sleeves from 2 inches above the elbow to the cuff. The neckline, shoulders, underarms, and back are considered non-sterile as they cannot be continuously monitored for contamination.

What is the minimum recommended duration for an alcohol-based hand rub to be effective, according to most guidelines?

Answer: 20 seconds

For alcohol-based hand sanitizers to be effective, they must be rubbed vigorously over all surfaces of the hands and fingers until completely dry. Most guidelines, including the CDC, recommend this process take at least 20 seconds to ensure sufficient contact time to kill microorganisms.

If a scrubbed team member's sterile glove is punctured by a needle, what is the immediate and most appropriate action?

Answer: Announce the contamination and immediately change the glove

A puncture compromises the sterile barrier, creating a risk of infection for the patient and exposure for the team member. The correct protocol is to immediately announce the break in technique so the team is aware, and then change the compromised glove using a sterile technique.

The outer 1-inch border of a sterile field is considered:

Answer: Contaminated

The edges of a sterile drape or wrapper are considered contaminated because they are in contact with non-sterile surfaces and are handled during setup. Therefore, a 1-inch border around the sterile field is always considered non-sterile, and sterile items should not be placed within this area.

When performing a skin prep for a femoral artery access site, the antiseptic solution should be applied in what manner?

Answer: In a circular motion, starting at the insertion site and moving outward

The principle of skin preparation is to move from the cleanest area (the proposed insertion site) to the less clean areas (the periphery). Applying the antiseptic in expanding concentric circles prevents re-contaminating the central area with microorganisms from the surrounding skin.