In medical and healthcare environments, maintaining sterility is crucial to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. One of the essential components of infection control is the proper donning of a sterile gown. Whether in the operating room, during surgical procedures, or in isolation units, healthcare professionals must follow strict protocols to minimize the risk of contamination. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to properly put on a sterile gown.
Understanding the Purpose of a Sterile Gown
A sterile gown is a protective garment designed to prevent the transfer of microorganisms from the healthcare provider to the patient. It covers the body and arms, creating a barrier between the skin and clothing of the wearer and the sterile field. The gown is used in conjunction with other personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, disposable masks, and sometimes face shields or goggles.
Preparation Before Putting on a Sterile Gown
Before donning a sterile gown, it is important to ensure that all necessary preparations have been completed:
- Wash Hands Thoroughly: Perform proper hand hygiene using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure hands are completely dry before proceeding.
- Put on a Sterile Mask and Cap: These should be worn before donning the gown to prevent contamination from hair and respiratory droplets.
- Ensure the Gown is Intact and Sterile: Check the packaging of the sterile gown to ensure it is unopened and undamaged. The gown should be opened only in a sterile environment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Donning a Sterile Gown
1. Approach the Gown Carefully
- Stand in front of the sterile field or table where the gown is placed.
- Avoid leaning over the gown to prevent contamination.
2. Open the Packaging
- Carefully open the sterile wrapper without touching the inside of the package or the gown itself.
- Grasp the gown by the inner wrinkle-resistant seams or the designated non-sterile parts (usually the inside top corners).
3. Hold the Gown Correctly
- Hold the gown in front of you with the opening facing you and the inside of the gown toward your body.
- Ensure the sleeves are fully extended and not twisted.
4. Step Into the Gown
- Slide your arms into the sleeves, keeping your hands inside the cuffs.
- Do not allow your hands to touch the outside of the gown.
5.Allow a Circulating Nurse to Assist
- Once the gown is on, a circulating nurse or assistant should help by pulling the gown up over your shoulders and securing the neck ties.
- The assistant may also help with the back closure or tie the waist straps, depending on the gown design.
6. Secure the Ties
- The neck and waist ties should be tied securely but comfortably.
- If the gown has a back closure, ensure it is properly fastened to maintain sterility.
7. Adjust the Gown Without Contamination
- Only the front of the gown from the chest to the waist is considered sterile.
- Adjust the gown carefully, making sure not to touch any non-sterile surfaces or your own body.
Donning Sterile Gloves After the Gown
After the sterile gown is properly in place, the next step is to put on sterile gloves. This should be done without touching the outside of the gown or any non-sterile surfaces.
1. Open the Glove Packaging
- Open the sterile glove wrapper carefully, keeping the inside of the wrapper and gloves untouched.
2. Pick Up the First Glove
- Grasp the first glove by the folded cuff edge with your gloved hand.
- Slide it onto the opposite hand, making sure not to touch the skin.
3. Slip the Second Glove On
- Use the now-gloved hand to pick up the second glove by the cuff and slide it onto the other hand.
4. Adjust the Gloves Over the Gown Cuffs
- Pull the gloves over the cuffs of the gown to ensure full coverage and sterility.
Maintaining Sterility After Gowning
Once the sterile gown and gloves are on, it is essential to maintain sterility throughout the procedure:
- Avoid Touching Non-Sterile Surfaces: This includes your face, body, or any equipment outside the sterile field.
- Keep Hands in View and Above the Waist: This helps prevent accidental contamination.
- Do Not Reach Across the Sterile Field: Always stay within the boundaries of the sterile area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Touching the outside of the gown with bare hands.
- Letting the gown touch non-sterile surfaces.
- Adjusting the mask or cap after gowning.
- Allowing the gloves to touch the body or clothing.
Properly donning a sterile gown is a critical skill for healthcare professionals working in sterile environments. It requires attention to detail, adherence to protocol, and practice to ensure that sterility is maintained throughout the procedure. By following the correct steps and avoiding common mistakes, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the risk of infection and contribute to better patient outcomes.
Always remember: sterility is not just about the gown itself, but how you handle it and maintain it throughout the procedure.
