Sterilizing With an Autoclave Indicators are used to ensure that articles have been sterilized Autoclave tape, sensitivity marks on bags or wraps, indicator capsules Indicators will change appearance when sterile

Sterile Field Never reach across a sterile field – reach in from the side Never turn your back on a sterile field 2-inch border of a sterile field is considered contaminated

Sterile Field Common Techniques Drop Technique Mitten Technique Transfer Forceps Keep sterile field dry (pathogens travel through wet) and be careful when pouring fluids

Sterile Draping Confirm package is sterile- not expired, open, dry Procedure: Place package- center surface top flap set to open away Pinch 1st flap on outside of wrapper – open and lay flat Right hand open RT flap Left hand open Lt flap Grasp turned down corner and pull the 4th flap open Never reach over the package- always reach around Drop contents onto the sterile field-6 inches above- angle ensure package wrapping does not touch sterile field. Open solutions and pour into sterile containers- confirm name, strength and expiration date- only sterile if used immediately-once set down, no longer sterile. 4

Sterile Gloves Sterile field needs to be open before putting on gloves Sterile gloves are contaminated on the inside – once on keep hands away from body and above waist When in doubt, consider it contaminated

Opening Sterile Packages Check to make sure it has not expired Open the distal end and pull it away from you, reaching around the package, not across it

Opening Sterile Packages Open the sides without touching the inside wrapper Pull the bottom down toward you