What should be done with sterile packages that touch the floor?

When sterile packages touch the floor, they are considered contaminated and should be discarded. The integrity of the sterile barrier is compromised when it makes contact with a surface that is not sterile, such as the floor. The potential for microorganisms from that surface to transfer to the sterile package exists, which poses a risk to patient safety and the potential for surgical site infections.

Discarding items that have been contaminated in this manner is a standard practice in maintaining a sterile environment in surgical settings. This practice ensures that only sterile items are used during surgical procedures, thereby upholding the highest standards of patient care and minimizing the risk of post-operative complications.