While performing a sterile dressing change, the nurse notices that part of the sterile field has become damp. Which action should the nurse prioritize to maintain the principles of sterility?
Ignore the damp area if it is not directly near the working site.
Discard the compromised supplies and prepare a new sterile field.
Wipe the damp area with a sterile dressing and continue the procedure.
Cover the moist area with additional sterile towels and proceed cautiously.
The correct answer is to discard the compromised equipment and set up a new sterile field. Moisture breaches sterility because it allows microorganisms from the surface underneath to contaminate the sterile area. Continuing the procedure or attempting to 'repair' a sterile field with additional supplies is unsafe, as sterility cannot be restored once it has been compromised. Ignoring the issue or attempting to dry the area does not align with infection prevention principles and puts the client at risk for infection.
Ask Bash
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
What does it mean for a sterile field to be compromised?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
Why is moisture a concern in a sterile field?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
What are the principles of infection prevention in nursing?
Open an interactive chat with Bash
NCLEX RN
Safe and Effective Care Environment
Your Score:
Report Issue
Bash, the Crucial Exams Chat Bot
AI Bot
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Nursing and Medical Assistants Package Join Premium for Full Access