Final answer:
The surgical nurse must intervene for Option 3: Open sterile supplies uncovered for 2 hours, as they are at risk for contamination. Keeping sterile supplies covered until use is essential in maintaining surgical asepsis.
Step-by-step explanation:
In maintaining surgical asepsis, all protocols must be followed to prevent contamination and ensure a sterile environment. Among the options given, the finding that requires intervention by the surgical nurse is Option 3: Open sterile supplies uncovered for 2 hours. Sterile supplies must remain covered until they are ready to be used to maintain their sterility. Uncovered sterile supplies are at risk of contamination, which can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition caused by the body's response to an infection.
The other options represent correct adherence to aseptic techniques. Option 1 describes proper storage of sterile instruments in a covered container, minimizing the risk of contamination. Option 2 indicates surgical team members are following protocol by wearing masks and gowns, which is standard practice to prevent the introduction of infectious agents into the sterile field. Option 4 describes a strategically positioned surgical table away from traffic flow, which helps maintain the sterile field by reducing the risk of accidental contamination.
It The nursing staff must reviewnfirmation of sterility, equipment availability, and proper setup before a surgical procedure commences. The Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) provides standards for aseptic techniques, including the maintenance of a sterile field, which must be adhered to by the surgical team.