Which technique is essential for maintaining sterile conditions during surgery?

• A. Frequent patient repositioning
• B. Proper handwashing and use of sterile gloves
• C. Minimizing the use of instruments
• D. Using non-sterile drapes

Answer: (B)

The practice of proper handwashing and the use of sterile gloves is fundamental to maintaining sterile conditions during surgery. Handwashing helps to remove transient microorganisms from the skin, significantly reducing the risk of infection. This step is critical as the surgical area can be exposed to various pathogens that could lead to postoperative complications if not adequately addressed.

In addition to handwashing, the use of sterile gloves forms a barrier between the surgical team and the patient's tissues, which helps prevent the introduction of bacteria. This combination of techniques ensures that aseptic conditions are maintained throughout the surgical procedure.

Other techniques such as patient repositioning, limiting instrument use, or using non-sterile drapes do not effectively contribute to maintaining sterile conditions. Frequent patient repositioning could increase the risk of contamination, while minimizing the use of instruments might not be practical in complex surgeries. Non-sterile drapes can compromise sterility, making them unsuitable for maintaining the sterile environment required during surgical interventions.