What happens if the points of the towel clip come in contact with the drape?

When the points of a towel clip come into contact with the drape, the sterile barrier of the drape is compromised, leading to contamination. In a surgical setting, maintaining a sterile field is crucial to prevent infections. Towel clips are used to secure drapes in place, but if the pointed ends touch the drape—an area meant to remain sterile—it introduces potential pathogens that can lead to surgical site infections.

The sterile drape is fundamental for creating a barrier between the surgical site and the external environment, and any contact with non-sterile items raises the risk of contamination. Therefore, when a towel clip contacts the drape, the entire drape is considered contaminated and cannot be relied upon to maintain sterility for the duration of the procedure. This emphasizes the importance of routine checks and adherence to sterile techniques in the operating room.