Final answer:
The inside and cuffs of sterile gloves are considered contaminated because they may come into contact with hands during donning, potentially introducing microorganisms to a sterile field. As part of aseptic technique, health care workers must follow meticulous handwashing and handling protocols to minimize contamination risks in medical and laboratory environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The premise that the inside and cuffs of sterile gloves are considered contaminated is rooted in the principles of surgical and laboratory safety, specifically the maintenance of a sterile field. Medical and laboratory personnel are instructed to wear protective gear such as coats, face shields, and gloves while working with potentially infectious materials or equipment. These gloves are sterilized on the outside to avoid contaminating the sterile field or patient. However, during donning the gloves, the wearer's hands may come into contact with the inside and cuffs, which is why these parts are considered to be potentially contaminated. Rigorous handwashing and handling procedures are in place to minimize the risk of transferring microorganisms from the skin to these areas.
When handling sterile items such as pipettes or media, direct contact with hands, skin, or non-sterilized surfaces must be strictly avoided. After glove removal, health care workers must perform thorough handwashing to prevent the spread of any contamination they may have encountered. Additionally, contaminated waste must be properly disposed of in biohazard containers and instruments must undergo decontamination in strong basic solutions. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is vital for preventing infection transmission and maintaining a sterile environment during medical procedures.