What is a sterile gasket used for?

Sterile drapes are primarily used to establish sterile operation fields, isolate contaminated environments, absorb bodily fluid secretions, protect wound tissues, and assist in instrument positioning. They are essential consumables in clinical diagnosis and treatment for ensuring aseptic safety. If contamination, damage, or expiration of the drape is discovered during use, it should be replaced immediately, and medical evaluation for infection risk is recommended.

1. Establishing a sterile operating area: Sterilized drapes are placed over the treatment site or procedure surface to create a localized sterile environment, reducing pathogen invasion during procedures such as injections or punctures and providing fundamental protection.

2. Isolating contaminated environments: The drapes isolate contaminants such as patient skin secretions and clothing fibers, preventing them from contacting sterile instruments or wounds, while also blocking bacteria from the external environment from entering the operative field.

3. Absorbing bodily fluid secretions: Some drapes have liquid-absorbing properties, enabling rapid absorption of blood, tissue fluid, and other fluids generated during diagnosis and treatment. This helps maintain a dry and clean working area and reduces the risk of infection due to fluid contamination.

4. Protecting wound tissues: When placed around wounds or injured areas, the drapes reduce mechanical friction and irritation from instruments, prevent foreign substances from contacting the wound, and provide a relatively clean environment conducive to wound healing.

5. Assisting in instrument positioning: Certain specialized sterile drapes feature positioning markers or compatible structures that help secure surgical instruments, catheters, and other devices, preventing displacement and enhancing procedural accuracy and safety.

Prior to use, inspect the drape packaging for integrity and confirm the expiration date. During placement, adhere strictly to aseptic technique, avoiding contact with non-sterile surfaces. After use, dispose of the drapes according to medical waste regulations. Unused drapes should be stored sealed in a cool, dry place.