Which sterile technique is crucial during an operation to prevent infection?

The importance of wearing sterile gloves during an operation lies in their role as a primary barrier to prevent contamination and infection. Sterile gloves ensure that the hands of the surgical team remain free of microorganisms when handling sterile instruments and tissues. This practice is fundamental in maintaining a sterile field, which is essential for minimizing the risk of surgical site infections—a significant concern in any surgical procedure.

When sterile gloves are worn, they help limit the transfer of bacteria from the skin to the surgical site, which is particularly critical because the skin is not a sterile surface. The use of sterile gloves is part of a broader set of practices known as aseptic technique, which aims to prevent contamination and maintain the sterility of instruments and the surgical area. Thus, wearing sterile gloves is a foundational aspect of infection control in the operating room.