What is the correct order in which you should surgically drape a patient?

Nov. 30, 2023

What is the Correct Order in Which You Should Surgically Drape a Patient?

Surgical draping is a crucial step in the preparation process for any surgical procedure. It helps maintain a sterile environment during surgery by preventing the transmission of microorganisms from non-sterile to sterile areas. The order in which a patient should be draped is of utmost importance to ensure maximum effectiveness and patient safety. In this article, we will discuss the correct order in which a patient should be surgically draped, highlighting the significance of each step.

Step 1: Preoperative Hand Hygiene.

Before initiating the draping process, it is essential to perform proper hand hygiene. This step includes washing hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. By adhering to strict hand hygiene protocols, healthcare professionals reduce the risk of cross-contamination and infection.

Step 2: Preoperative Patient Prepping.

Once hand hygiene is complete, the next step is to prepare the patient. This involves shaving the operative site, if necessary, and using an antiseptic solution to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area. Proper prepping reduces the concentration of microorganisms on the patient's skin, ensuring a sterile environment during surgery.

Step 3: Applying the Surgical Gown and Gloves.

Before draping the patient, surgeons and other sterile team members need to put on the appropriate surgical attire. This includes wearing a sterile surgical gown and gloves. These garments act as barriers between the patient and medical personnel, preventing the transfer of microorganisms from the surgical team to the patient and vice versa.

Step 4: Draping the Field.

The first step in the actual draping process is to create a sterile field by placing a sterile fenestrated (with a hole) drape over the patient. This drape has an opening that allows access to the surgical site while keeping the surrounding areas covered. The fenestrated drape should be carefully positioned to ensure the surgical site is adequately exposed while maintaining a sterile environment.

Additional reading:
Exploring the Evolution and Functionality of Prosthetic Feet
How is high quality phosphatidylserine sourced?
Natural Plant Capsules vs. Gelatin Capsules: A Comparative Analysis
Benefits and Applications of Portable Ultrasound
Types of Disposable Nurse Caps
HSV Rapid Test: A Breakthrough in Quick and Accurate Herpes Detection
What Are Disposable Oral Swabs Used For?

Step 5: Draping the Patient's Extremities.

The next step is to drape the patient's extremities using sterile separate drapes for each limb. The purpose of draping the limbs is to isolate them from the surgical field and prevent contamination. Properly securing the limb drapes is important to ensure they do not inadvertently fall into the sterile area during the operation.

Step 6: Placement of Instrument Drapes.

Instrument drapes help maintain the sterility of surgical instruments throughout the procedure. These drapes are placed over instrument trays, ensuring that they remain covered until required for use. It is important to note that instrument drapes should be handled with care to avoid compromising their sterile nature.

Step 7: Draping the Mayo Stand and Back Table.

In order to maintain a sterile environment for instruments and supplies, the Mayo stand and back table should be draped. A sterile drape is placed over these surfaces to prevent them from becoming a source of contamination during the surgery.

Step 8: Final Steps and Precautions.

Once the patient and all equipment have been properly draped, it is crucial to ensure that the drapes are secure and not impeding the surgical site. Tucking the drapes securely and avoiding excessive movement during the procedure can help prevent unintentional contamination.

In conclusion, the correct order in which a patient should be surgically draped is a critical aspect of maintaining a sterile environment during surgery. Each step plays a significant role in preventing the transmission of microorganisms and ensuring patient safety. Following the proper order and adhering to strict draping protocols can contribute to successful surgical outcomes.

For further information or assistance with surgical draping, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The company is the world’s best acid resistant chemical protective coveralls, medical protective coveralls, disposable surgery kits supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.