Principles of Aseptic Technique

 Only sterile items are used within sterile field.

 Sterile objects become unsterile when touched by unsterile
objects.
 Sterile items that are out of vision or below the waist level
of the nurse are considered unsterile.
 Sterile objects can become unsterile by prolong exposure
to airborne microorganisms.
 Fluids flow in the direction of gravity.
 Moisture that passes through a sterile object draws
microorganism from unsterile surfaces above or below to the
surface by capillary reaction.
 The edges of a sterile field are considered unsterile.
 The skin cannot be sterilized and is unsterile.
 Conscientiousness, alertness and honesty are essential
qualities in maintaining surgical asepsis