In the draping sequence, when is the procedure drape placed on the patient?

In the draping sequence, when is the procedure drape placed on the patient?

• A. Before the half-sheet
• B. Before the incise drape
• C. First
• D. Last

Answer: (D)

The key idea is that the sterile field is completed with a final barrier that fully encloses the area of operation. The procedure drape is placed last to seal and secure the sterile field after the site has been prepped and the initial drapes have been positioned. Placing it last prevents movement or contamination of the field during earlier steps (like laying down the half-sheet and applying the incise drape) and ensures the operative area remains protected and accessible only within the sterile boundary. If it were placed earlier, it could be disturbed by subsequent prep and draping, increasing the risk of contamination.

The key idea is that the sterile field is completed with a final barrier that fully encloses the area of operation. The procedure drape is placed last to seal and secure the sterile field after the site has been prepped and the initial drapes have been positioned. Placing it last prevents movement or contamination of the field during earlier steps (like laying down the half-sheet and applying the incise drape) and ensures the operative area remains protected and accessible only within the sterile boundary. If it were placed earlier, it could be disturbed by subsequent prep and draping, increasing the risk of contamination.