What is the purpose of using plastic sheeting in the surgical field?

• A. To cover the patient during surgery
• B. To test the sharpness of surgical instruments
• C. To provide a sterile environment
• D. To enhance visibility of instrument details

Answer: (B)

Using plastic sheeting in the surgical field serves multiple purposes, key among them being the creation of a sterile environment. This is crucial during surgical procedures to prevent infections and ensure patient safety. By covering surfaces with plastic sheeting, healthcare providers can minimize the risk of contamination from environmental factors.

Some might misinterpret the role of plastic sheeting, thinking it could be for purposes like testing instrument sharpness or improving visibility, but these uses do not align with the primary role of maintaining sterility and cleanliness in the operating room. Therefore, while cover options may arise in surgical contexts, they do not fulfill the central goal of plastic sheeting, which revolves around infection control and ensuring the integrity of the sterile field.