An operating room nurse is preparing an operation theater for a ...

[kodithompson]

An operating room nurse is preparing an operation theater for a surgical procedure. Which of the following points regarding the principles of surgical asepsis should the nurse heed when preparing sterilized surgical instruments?
 
  A) When a sterile item touches something that is not sterile, it may or may not be contaminated.
  B) Any partially uncovered sterile package is still considered to be sterile.
  C) A commercially packaged surgical item is not considered sterile if it is past the expiry date.
  D) Sterility may not be preserved even when one sterile item touches another sterile item.

Question 2

A nurse is preparing a sterile field in order to perform a dressing change for a client. Which of the following steps should the nurse take pouring a sterile solution into the dressing tray?
 
  A) Shake the solution vigorously prior to use.
  B) Grasp the lip of the container when pouring.
  C) First pour and discard a small amount of the solution.
  D) Clean the lip of the container with a damp cloth.

[ynlevi]

Answer to Question 1

C
Feedback:
When preparing the operation theater for a surgical procedure, the nurse should remember that a commercially packaged surgical item is not considered sterile if it has passed its recommended expiry date. When a sterile item touches an item that is not sterile, then the sterile item is contaminated. If a sterile item touches another sterile item, it is not considered contaminated. A partially uncovered sterile package is considered contaminated.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Before each use of a sterile solution, the nurse should pour and discard a small amount to wash away airborne contaminants from the mouth of the container. The nurse should not clean the nozzle area with a damp cloth or grasp it, as this would lead to contamination of the solution. Solutions should not normally be shaken prior to use.

[kodithompson]

Excellent

[nanny]

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