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Only sterile items are used within sterile field. Sterile objects become unsterile when touched by unsterile objects. Sterile items that are out of vision or below the waist level of the nurse are considered unsterile. Sterile objects can become unsterile by prolong exposure to airborne microorganisms. Fluids flow in the direction of gravity. Moisture that passes through a sterile object draws microorganism from unsterile surfaces above or below to the surface by capillary reaction. The edges of a sterile field are considered unsterile. The skin cannot be sterilized and is unsterile. Conscientiousness, alertness and honesty are essential qualities in maintaining surgical asepsis

Sterile Fields The first principle of surgical asepsis states that all materials in a sterile field must be sterile. All objects added to your sterile field must also be sterile. If you put your hands into the sterile field, they must be covered using sterile gloving technique and the gloves should also begin in sterile packaging. The second principle states that a sterile barrier that has been compromised by punctures, tears or moisture has to be considered contaminated. If a sterile field has been set up and it is accidentally torn, the openings can allow microorganisms to invade and contaminate. Sterile Borders The third principle states that once a package is opened, a 2.5 cm (1 inch) border around the edge is considered unsterile. For example, many procedures contain setup of sterile packaging that is opened before sterile gloves are applied. During this time the 1 inch unsterile border is the only section that can be touched. The fourth principle states that tables draped as part of a sterile field are considered sterile only at the table level. Therefore the table legs, underside of the table, or any shelves below the table level are to be considered unsterile. Sterility Questions The fifth principle examines questions or doubts. It states that if there are any questions or doubts about an object's sterility, the object should be considered unsterile. The sixth principle states that sterile people and objects should only come into contact with sterile fields, and unsterile people and objects should only come into contact with unsterile areas, such as the 2.5 cm border. Movement and Range of Vision

The seventh principle states that movement around or in the sterile field must not compromise or contaminate the sterile field. While performing procedures requiring a sterile field, it is important to remember that correct sterile techniq ue must always be followed. The eighth principle says that anything out of your range of vision or below waist level is considered contaminated and unsterile. For instance, if an object is dropped below the waist, it is no longer sterile. The backside of the body, which is out of your range of vision, is also considered unsterile. Therefore, you should never turn your back on your sterile field and bring all tables needed in procedures up to your waist level. Air Exposure The ninth and last principle of sur gical asepsis states that a sterile object or field can become contaminated by lingering exposure to air. While performing a sterile procedure, one should stay organized and finish the procedure as quickly as possible.