Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

Where should sterile items be positioned during medical procedures?

1. Below the waist

2. Directly against the body

3. Above the waist, away from the body

4. Anywhere on the table

The correct answer is: Above the waist, away from the body

During medical procedures, sterile items should be positioned above the waist and away from the body to maintain their sterility. This practice is crucial as it reduces the risk of contamination. When sterile items are placed above waist level, they are less likely to come into contact with unsterile surfaces or items, which may be present around the body or lower on the table. Placing sterile items directly against the body or below the waist increases the potential for contamination from skin or clothing. Similarly, positioning items anywhere on the table does not ensure the items remain uncontaminated, as other items or surfaces may be unsterile. By keeping sterile items above the waist and away from the body, healthcare professionals help protect both the items' sterility and the safety of the patient during procedures.