During a surgical procedure, which technique is vital for maintaining sterility?

Using sterile drapes and instruments is crucial for maintaining sterility during a surgical procedure because these elements directly create a barrier against contaminants. Sterile drapes help to cover the surgical area, reducing the risk of exposure to non-sterile surfaces and airborne pathogens. Sterile instruments are essential because they come in direct contact with the surgical site and must be free from microorganisms to prevent infections.

While wearing gloves is important for infection control, gloves alone do not ensure that the entire surgical environment is sterile. Disinfecting the room post-surgery is an important practice for maintaining overall cleanliness but does not impact the sterility of the immediate surgical field during the operation. Administering antibiotics can help prevent infections but does not replace the need for maintaining a sterile environment during the procedure itself. Therefore, the practice of using sterile drapes and instruments is fundamental to upholding the sterility needed during a surgical operation.