General patient coverage

• 3 Towels
• 3 Medium Drapes
• 1 Large Drape
• 1 Laparotomy Drape
• 1 Folded Towel (Shaped as a Pouch)

Steps:

1. The circulating nurse holds and supports the affected arm at the elbow.

2. Place a folded medium drape on the armrest, extending from under the arm to the shoulder and chest.

3. Position the arm on the armrest and secure it with a wrist strap.

4. Insert the folded towel (shaped as a pouch) under the armpit and push it into place.

o   This helps fill the empty space under the armpit, preventing bacterial invasion and absorbing blood and sweat.

5. Unfold a medium drape and place it over the patient, covering the surgical area.

6. Unfold a large drape and position it below the surgical site.

7. Secure the drapes with towel clamps, placing one at each corner of the draped square.

8. Open the laparotomy drape and position it over the other drapes, ensuring the pre-cut opening aligns with the surgical site.

9. Cover any remaining exposed areas with additional towels.

o   The armrest may require extra towels for full coverage.