Final answer:
When walking past a sterile nurse in the OR, give them a wide berth to avoid contaminating the sterile field, maintaining at least a one-foot distance, and communicate with the nurse as needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the operating room (OR), maintaining sterility is paramount to ensure patient safety and prevent infections. When you need to walk past a sterile nurse, it is crucial to avoid any contact with the sterile field. The proper way to do this is to give the nurse a wide berth, ensuring there is ample space between you and the sterile area.
If you are unsure about the distance, a good rule of thumb is to maintain at least a one-foot distance, although more is preferable. If the room does not offer enough space for you to pass without risking contamination of the sterile field, you should ask the nurse or another member of the surgical team for guidance on how to proceed.
It is also important to communicate with the sterile nurse and alert them before you walk by to ensure they are aware of your movement and can assist in maintaining a sterile environment.