Tips for Properly Organizing Sterile Attire in the Operating Room

When it comes to organizing sterile attire in the operating room, following the correct order is crucial to maintaining a sterile environment and preventing contamination. In the scenario where the first assistant arrives before the surgeon, it is important to lay out the sterile attire in a specific order to ensure efficiency and adherence to sterile protocols.

Why is the order of placing sterile attire important?

The order of placing sterile attire in the operating room is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that each team member can easily access and don their attire in the most efficient manner possible. This helps streamline the surgical preparation process and minimizes the risk of contamination.

Additionally, following the correct order of placing sterile attire helps maintain the integrity of the sterile field. By arranging the attire according to the sequence in which team members will be dressing, it reduces the likelihood of accidental contamination and contributes to a safer surgical environment.

1. Always follow the surgeon and first assistant's preferences for gown sizes and glove sizes when organizing sterile attire.

2. Maintain a clear and organized layout on the back table to facilitate smooth and efficient dressing of the surgical team.

3. Ensure that the order of placing sterile attire corresponds to the sequence in which team members will be donning their attire to minimize the risk of contamination.