What principle should be followed for taking care of surgical forceps during a procedure?

• A. Always keep them in a sterile field
• B. Stand them upright along the sides of the instrument tray
• C. Move them only when necessary to minimize contamination
• D. Place them one inside another to save space

Answer: (B)

The principle of keeping surgical forceps in a sterile field is crucial for maintaining sterility and preventing infections during surgery. Surgical forceps are precision instruments that directly interact with the surgical site, and any breach in their sterility can lead to significant complications, including surgical site infections.

By ensuring that forceps are always kept within the sterile field, you minimize the risk of contamination. This practice is standard in surgical protocols and is essential for the safety and efficacy of the procedure. Maintaining them in a designated area where they remain sterile helps ensure that they are always ready for use without losing their cleanliness.

While it may seem practical to stand them upright along the sides of the instrument tray, this method can lead to potential contamination if the area is not properly monitored. Additionally, placing forceps one inside another can distort their shape, making them less effective for their intended use and risking damage. Therefore, the priority is to maintain a sterile environment around these critical instruments throughout the procedure.