Guidelines for infection control in operations

- Opening a Sterile Pack

Required Supplies:

• Sterile pack

Steps:

1. Do not open the sterile pack until it is ready for use.

2. The circulating nurse inspects the pack for:

o   Expiration date

o   Any tears in the outer packaging

o   Autoclave tape color change

o   If expired, damaged, or if the autoclave tape does not confirm sterilization, do not use the pack.

3. Cut the autoclave tape and place the thumbs at the top fold of the pack to straighten the upper portion.

4. Hold the pack from the bottom and keep it away from clothing.

o   Expose the contents at the top portion of the pack for the scrub nurse to see.

5. Stand next to the sterile table while opening the pack.

o   Allow the scrub nurse to remove the contents.

o   Avoid leaning over the sterile trolley to prevent contamination.

o   Do not shake or drop the sterile contents onto the table to avoid dust or debris falling onto the sterile field.

6. The scrub nurse uses sterile forceps or sponge-holding forceps to retrieve the sterile contents.

7. If a sterile pack is opened incorrectly, or if it is not the required pack, it must not be used and should be returned to the central sterilization unit for reprocessing.

o   Do not reclose the pack for later use.

8. The circulating nurse should stand at the side of the trolley, holding the suture packet for the scrub nurse to take.

o   Avoid leaning over the trolley.

o   Ensure the sterile inner layer is not discarded onto the trolley.

9. The scrub nurse uses sterile forceps or sponge-holding forceps to retrieve the sterile layer from the pack.

10. This method should be followed for all sterile packs.