What does AORN recommend for controlling traffic in areas with sterile supplies?

AORN recommends that traffic in areas with sterile supplies should be controlled to limit access to trained personnel. This approach helps to maintain the integrity of the sterile environment, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring that only individuals who are knowledgeable about infection control practices and protocols are allowed in these sensitive areas.

By restricting access, the focus remains on minimizing potential sources of contamination and ensuring that the supplies remain sterile until they are needed for surgical procedures. This practice is essential for maintaining patient safety and promoting optimal surgical outcomes.

Unrestricted access could lead to an increase in the chances of contamination, while allowing all staff or only surgical staff presents challenges in maintaining a sterile environment and could lead to greater risks of infection. Thus, controlling traffic effectively is a crucial aspect of infection prevention in perioperative settings.