What should you avoid doing when working near a sterile field?

When working near a sterile field, turning your back to the sterile field is something that should be avoided. This is crucial because turning your back can lead to the inadvertent contamination of the sterile area. When you turn away, you lose sight of the sterile field and cannot ensure that no movements or actions are taking place that could compromise its integrity. Maintaining a clear line of sight and being aware of your surroundings is essential in order to protect the sterility of the area.

In contrast, wearing a face mask is typically necessary to prevent respiratory droplets from contaminating the sterile field, and adjusting surgical instruments can be done with care while following sterile technique. Wearing non-sterile attire is also discouraged in the context of maintaining a sterile environment; however, the focus on turning your back signifies the importance of attentiveness and vigilance when in proximity to sterile fields.