Which is the correct order of steps for preparing for a surgical hand scrub procedure?

The correct order for preparing for a surgical hand scrub procedure is vital to ensuring a sterile environment and minimizing the risk of infection. The process begins with removing jewelry, as any rings, bracelets, or watches can harbor bacteria and are difficult to adequately clean. After removing jewelry, containing hair is essential to prevent hair from falling into the sterile field during surgery. Following these two initial steps, donning a fresh mask is important to protect the surgical area from respiratory particles.

Finally, washing hands and forearms is the last step in the process. This part of the procedure includes scrubbing for an adequate amount of time to ensure that the hands and forearms are disinfected properly, which is critical before performing any surgical procedure.

This sequence aligns with best practices in infection control and illustrates a systematic approach to surgical preparation.