STERILE FIELD

The sterile field is an area that has been created free of microbes to perform a procedure. This area in radiology typically includes a backtable, the area of interest in the patient cleaned aseptically, and then draped with sterile coverings. These can include towels, quarter drapes, and window drapes to expose the area being worked on while also creating a workspace on top of the patient as well.

This will also include the area between the backtable and the patient that is prepped. If you are not sterile, do not walk in this area. When you make your sterile field, please drape any controls or devices you may need during the case as well. Being able to access table controls is an important part of IR. 

Be mindful of any lines that come on to the table because they are only still sterile, up to a certain distance from the table. It is best to handle these lines at the end of them to prevent contamination. 

The C arm will also be draped to prevent contamination, along with the ultrasound machine if used during the case. Also, technically for a sterile procedure, you should not turn your back on the field. But, these are considered clean procedures, with a low rate of infection, there is a low risk of contamination.

Lesson Summary

The sterile field in radiology is an area prepped to minimise the risk of infection during a procedure. The field typically includes a backtable and coverings such as towels and window drapes placed on the patient. When creating a sterile field, any controls or devices needed during the procedure must also be draped for easy access. All lines coming to the table should be handled from the end, and the C arm and ultrasound machines should also be draped. Though the risk of contamination is low during clean procedures, turning your back on the field should be avoided.