Answer:
A) The outer 2 inches
Step-by-step explanation:
In standard practice for maintaining a sterile field, it is considered that the outer edges of the sterile field are contaminated. This typically refers to an area of about 1 inch to 2 inches. Many guidelines and established protocols consider the outer 1 inch of the sterile field to be contaminated, but this may vary with specific policies and should always be verified against current local protocols. However, for test-taking purposes, if these are the options given and there is no specific protocol provided, the usual standard is the outer 2 inches (Option A).