Which statement correctly reflects reaching across a sterile field?

Which statement correctly reflects reaching across a sterile field?

• A. It is never a concern to reach across if your hands are clean.
• B. The nurse should not reach across the sterile field.
• C. It is acceptable if you are wearing sterile gloves.
• D. It is allowed if performing the task quickly.

Answer: (B)

Reaching across a sterile field compromises sterility. The sterile field must remain uncontaminated, and crossing over it with your arm or body can transfer microbes to the sterile items. This risk persists even if your hands are clean or you’re wearing sterile gloves, because the act of reaching across disrupts the protective barrier and can drag contaminants into the field. The correct practice is to avoid crossing over the field entirely and access items from the edge or have someone pass them at the border without you reaching across. If something is out of reach, reposition yourself or request assistance rather than crossing the field, and never justify it by speed.

Reaching across a sterile field compromises sterility. The sterile field must remain uncontaminated, and crossing over it with your arm or body can transfer microbes to the sterile items. This risk persists even if your hands are clean or you’re wearing sterile gloves, because the act of reaching across disrupts the protective barrier and can drag contaminants into the field. The correct practice is to avoid crossing over the field entirely and access items from the edge or have someone pass them at the border without you reaching across. If something is out of reach, reposition yourself or request assistance rather than crossing the field, and never justify it by speed.