Where is the best location to establish a sterile field in a client’s room?

Establishing a sterile field is critical to preventing infections during procedures. The optimal location for a sterile field is the over-bed table, as it provides a flat, stable, and clean surface that is at an appropriate height for the healthcare provider to work without excessive bending or reaching. It is typically designed for purpose and often found in hospital rooms, making it more suitable than other options.

Using the bedside table or a chair next to the bed poses issues because these surfaces can often be compromised by contamination, including patient belongings or other items that may not be sterile. Setting up a sterile field on the floor beside the bed is not advisable, as the floor is one of the most contaminated surfaces in a room, which poses a significant risk of introducing pathogens into the sterile field.

The over-bed table stands out as the preferred choice due to its cleanliness, accessibility, and functionality for maintaining sterility during clinical tasks.