Sterile Table Passing Technique: Scrub Nurse Protocol for Aseptic Transfer

Passing a sterile table (Mayo stand or back table) to the surgical field requires strict aseptic technique to prevent contamination. The following is the standard protocol.

Pre-Pass Preparation

• Verify sterility: chemical indicator on drape, no tears, moisture, or strike-through.
• Confirm correct procedure, instruments, implants with surgeon & circulator.
• Position: Stand at the side of the table closest to the surgeon (usually surgeon's left for right-handed).

Step-by-Step Pass

1. Grasp the drape: With both hands, hold the sterile drape at its distal edge (farthest from you), folded in half lengthwise so the sterile surface faces up.
2. Advance: Step forward, extending the drape over the table surface, allowing it to drape over the far side first.
3. Unfold toward surgeon: Continue moving forward, unfolding the drape so the sterile surface contacts the table progressively toward the surgeon. Avoid "fanning" or shaking.
4. Cover completely: Ensure the entire table top and sides are covered; no gaps at edges.
5. Release & step back: Once the drape is flat and secure, release it and step away from the sterile field. Do not reach over the sterile field.
6. Surgeon accepts: Surgeon (or assistant) now retrieves instruments from the newly draped table.

Critical Principles

• Sterile to sterile only: Never touch sterile with non-sterile (gloves become contaminated if they touch unsterile surfaces).
• Face the sterile field: Never turn your back on it.
• Stay within 12" of table: Minimize reach; if you must step away, re-scrub & re-glove.
• Communicate: "Passing table," "Table passed," "Contamination" – clear, loud.
• If contamination suspected: Stop. Declare "Break in technique." Re-drape or replace per protocol.

Common Errors

• Reaching across the sterile field.
• Drape dragging on non-sterile surface (floor, unsterile Mayo stand).
• Insufficient coverage (gaps at corners).
• Talking/coughing over the field.

Mastery comes from deliberate practice in simulation and mentored cases. Asepsis is a team sport—every member guards the field.