When using sterile gloved hands, where should they be positioned?

Sterile gloved hands should be positioned above the waist to maintain sterility and prevent contamination. This positioning is crucial in maintaining an aseptic technique during medical procedures. When hands are held high, it reduces the risk of touching non-sterile surfaces, which could compromise the sterile field and increase the likelihood of introducing pathogens. Keeping the hands above the waist ensures that the sterile areas are protected and helps healthcare providers adhere to infection control protocols.

Positioning the hands at or below the waist could lead to inadvertent contact with the body or other surfaces that are not sterile, increasing the risk of contamination. Thus, maintaining the hands above waist level is an essential practice in any environment where sterile technique is required.