Backs of gowns, including the wrap-around gowns, are considered _?

The backs of gowns, including wrap-around gowns, are considered unsterile because they are typically not in contact with the sterile field or the sterile instruments used during a surgical procedure. In a surgical setting, maintaining sterility is crucial to prevent infections; therefore, only specific areas of the gown are designated as sterile, primarily those that are in direct contact with the surgical site and the scrubbed-in personnel.

Gowns are designed to provide a barrier and protect the surgical team from exposure to contaminants during surgery, but the back of the gown is often exposed and, therefore, not considered to meet the criteria for sterility. This is important because if an unsterile surface or area comes in contact with sterile instruments or areas, it could compromise the sterile field and increase the risk of surgical site infections. Understanding the concept of what areas are sterile versus unsterile is fundamental in surgical practice for ensuring patient safety and effective infection control.