Which part of a sterile field is considered contaminated?

The outer 1 inch of the sterile field is considered contaminated because it acts as a buffer zone to prevent contamination from the surrounding environment. Sterile fields are designed to maintain a specific area free from pathogens, and the outer edges are at higher risk of becoming contaminated as they are in contact with non-sterile areas. This region is particularly susceptible to contamination from air movement, accidental contact, or splatter.

Understanding this is crucial in maintaining a sterile environment, especially in surgical settings, where even a small breach in sterility can lead to infections or complications. The area within the inner 2 inches is generally kept sterile, as this is where instruments and sterile objects are placed, while the items actually placed on the field need to remain sterile as well to ensure the integrity of the sterile field is not compromised.