What is the purpose of using a sterile drape?

• A. Drapes are used mainly to decorate the surgical area.
• B. A sterile drape helps create a sterile field for the procedure.
• C. Drapes are optional if the patient is not under anesthesia.
• D. Drapes are used to measure body temperature.

Answer: (B)

The purpose of a sterile drape is to establish a sterile field around the procedure, creating a barrier between the skin and surrounding non-sterile surfaces to prevent infection. By covering the area with sterile material and exposing only the surgical site through a fenestration if needed, the drape minimizes the chance that microbes from surrounding areas reach the wound or instruments. This sterile field is maintained throughout the procedure with proper sterile technique and must be kept intact; if it’s breached, the area is no longer sterile and corrective steps are required. Drapes are not for decoration, they are not optional, and they are not used to measure temperature.