Where should the drape be placed first during a surgical setup?

Placing the drape first on the far side of the nonsterile table is a critical step in establishing a sterile environment during surgical setup. This choice allows for the creation of a barrier between the nonsterile area and the sterile field, which helps to prevent contamination of instruments and supplies that will be used during the procedure.

In surgical practices, establishing a sterile field is essential to minimize the risk of infections. By starting with the drape on the far side, the surgical team can effectively manage the aseptic technique as they gradually move towards the sterile area. This approach also enables the team to maintain control over the sterile environment, ensuring that the draping process does not inadvertently touch nonsterile items or areas.

Other positioning options, such as placing the drape near the surgeon or directly over the sterile field or on the patient’s body, may compromise the sterility and create a risk for introducing contaminants. Each of these placements could lead to a breach in aseptic technique, undermining the overall safety and success of the surgical intervention.