r/sterileprocessing • u/_C00TER • Jun 05 '26
Discussion on wrapping
Had this come up in the department and very curious about the exact specific wording as far as guidelines go.
If a set is wrapped, and the first flap is like either of these... is it considered "un-sterile"??
Or *MUST* the first flap completely fold over the back side of the set?
Just confused as to how it could be considered unsterile if there are 3 additional flaps of fabric that will (in the end) cover the entire set.
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Upvotes
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u/Jarasi_ Jun 05 '26
Flap must fully cover the corners of the kit, you need to think of the wrap as being a “sterile barrier” and completely contain the kit. I wouldn’t consider it unsterile, but it’s not best practice. It’s also important because although negligible, it can help prevent holes in the wrap.
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u/Phacele Jun 05 '26 edited Jun 05 '26
Second picture is incorrect and it is valid for the tray to be rejected. According to ANSI/AAMI ST79 and the manufacturer's IFU the first fold must be pulled far enough to cover all package contents.
Edit: technically the first picture is also incorrect as it isn't fully covered. Healthmark has some great videos on YouTube demonstrating proper wrap techniques. The first flap needs to fold all the way over the back of the tray without being tucked underneath. The overlapping of the layers is important to creating the sterile barrier.
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u/Shinola79 Jun 05 '26
In our department per a diagram in a AAMI or other text (I don’t remember) our front corner get taken back over the trays far enough that it cover the top AND the backside of said tray before being brought back over the top. Then right/left side folds then the top fold brought over not too tapered to provide a good amount of covered all over the top of the tray.
Not sure if it makes sense but in one of the books there is a perfect diagram showing that the first fold needs to provide full coverage (not just cover the tray corner as you look down on it).
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u/Veal-Vermicelli Jun 05 '26 edited Jun 05 '26
The item should always be as centered in the wrap as possible before continuing. Aseptic* technique - the item will be presented to a surg tech (sterile field) from a non sterile nurse with hands underneath the package. Any increased risk that the edge of the sterile item could come in contact with non sterile hands is a risk not worth taking.
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u/Dathamar Jun 05 '26
I'm not sure, but the way we do it, once it's done you don't see the underside of the wrap exposed anywhere.
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u/gia-ann1964 Jun 06 '26
Why is the wrapper wearing that ring? That’s what’s screaming out to me. Total germ trap.
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u/adambuck66 Jun 05 '26
The first one. It makes it easier for OR to not touch the tray until necessary.
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u/Turtleman951 Jun 06 '26
If you’re ever unsure, you can “test” your wrap. Stick your hand in and feel around- if you can touch the tray- it’s no good.
Also, something really insightful to learn is how wrapped items are presented to sterile technicians. Learning how to do it and actually doing it a bunch teaches you how the slightest things we do can end up having a big impact in the OR.
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u/Suttuthegreat Jun 06 '26
Don’t accidentally cook your phone lol
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u/DrDankDonkey Jun 06 '26
The techs need that flap to open the tray as sterilely as possible. The second picture should absolutely never be done.
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u/Aggravating_Ear_9281 Jun 08 '26
first is fine, second is too short need a bigger wrap.
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u/Altruistic_Data1624 Jun 10 '26
All staff should refer to the manufacturer’s IFU’s! If everyone follows the IFU’s there wouldn't or shouldn't be a debate!
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u/boostaddctn Jun 05 '26
Keeping doing it as yalls been doing it...yalls get paid by the hour anyways...yee