What action should be taken if a sterile item is found to be compromised?

The action of discarding a compromised sterile item and continuing with available sterile supplies is essential to maintaining patient safety and preventing infection during surgical procedures. A sterile item that is found to be compromised—whether it is visibly damaged, has been breached, or comes into contact with a non-sterile surface—cannot guarantee the sterility necessary for surgical use. Continuing to use a compromised item poses a high risk of introducing pathogens into the surgical site, potentially leading to postoperative infections.

It is vital for surgical teams to ensure that all items used during a procedure are fully sterile to uphold the highest standards of patient care. By discarding the compromised item and opting for another sterile supply, the surgical team can proceed with the procedure while minimizing risks to patient health. This approach emphasizes the importance of vigilance regarding sterility in the surgical setting and aligns with best practices for infection control and prevention.