Final answer:
A sterile surgical assistant performs the task of creating and maintaining a sterile field during a surgical procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A task that can only be performed by a sterile surgical assistant is creating and maintaining a sterile field during a surgical procedure. This involves ensuring that all equipment and supplies used in the procedure are sterile and free from contamination.
The sterile field must be properly set up and maintained throughout the surgery to minimize the risk of infection. The surgical assistant is responsible for following strict aseptic techniques, such as using sterile gloves, masks, and gowns, and handling instruments and supplies in a way that prevents contamination.