Which practice should the surgical team prioritize regarding attire?

• A. Wearing personal jewelry
• B. Securely fastening scrub tops at the waist
• C. Using disinfectants on clothing
• D. Wearing shoes without covers

Answer: (B)

The surgical team should prioritize securely fastening scrub tops at the waist because this practice helps maintain a sterile environment within the operating room. When scrub tops are fastened properly, it reduces the risk of contamination by ensuring that the attire fits appropriately and minimizes the potential for fabrics to touch sterile areas or surgical instruments. Properly secured attire also enhances the safety and professionalism of the surgical team, promoting a culture of safety and compliance with infection control protocols.

In contrast, wearing personal jewelry can create complications, as it may harbor bacteria, interfere with surgical procedures, or pose a safety risk if it gets caught on instruments or drapes. Using disinfectants on clothing is generally not a recommended practice for surgical attire; instead, sterile environments are maintained through proper laundering and wearing clean surgical scrubs. Finally, wearing shoes without covers can increase the risk of introducing contaminants into the surgical field, as shoe covers help prevent debris and microorganisms from being transferred to the sterile environment. Thus, securely fastening scrub tops stands out as the most critical practice for promoting safety and sterility in the operating room.