1. 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

2. 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

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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

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