LESSON 3
SURGICAL ASEPSIS AND STERILE TECHNIQUE
3-1.
PRINCIPLES OF STERILE TECHNIQUE
Sterile technique refers to the way sterile materials are handled in order to keep
them free of living microorganisms (germs). Sterile technique prevents contamination.
Sterile technique is needed in any procedure involving contact with an open wound,
breaking skin or mucous membrane, or entrance into a normally sterile body cavity. In
the controlled setting of the operating room, sterile technique can be practiced exactly.
The following three rules are the basis of the sterile technique.
a. An article is either sterile or contaminated.
b. A sterile article that has been touched by a contaminated article is no longer
sterile.
c. Any sterile article that has become unintentionally wet or damp is no longer
sterile.
3-2.
BASIC STEPS IN STERILE TECHNIQUE
a. Set up for, assist with, and perform sterile procedures in a clean environment.
b. Wash hands thoroughly before beginning any sterile procedure.
c. Use only sterile supplies.
d. Keep unused sterile equipment sterile during preparation for and while
performing the procedure. An object or surface is sterile when it has been made free
from all living microorganisms by one of the processes of sterilization.
3-3.
CREATING A STERILE FIELD
A sterile field is a work surface area prepared to hold sterile equipment during a
sterile technique procedure. The sterile field provides an area in which sterility is
continually maintained. The procedures for establishing a sterile field are given below.
a. Obtain the necessary equipment and supplies. All articles required for the
procedure, which will be within the sterile field must be sterile.
b. Perform patient care handwash.
c. Locate a suitable surface. Set up the field on a surface that is clean, flat, dry,
and free from drafts.
MD0540
3-2