If drape adhesive fails due to moisture or hair, what is the appropriate action?

• A. Reposition and re-secure with adhesives or clamps; ensure proper adhesion.
• B. Proceed with the current drape without adjustment.
• C. Only re-drape after surgery ends.
• D. Stop the case and convert to a non-draped field.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining a secure sterile barrier is the whole point of draping, and drape adhesive needs a clean, dry surface to stick properly. When moisture or hair interferes, the adhesive loses its grip and the drape edge can lift, creating a gap that risks contamination. The best action is to re-establish the barrier: reposition the drape if needed, dry the skin surface, remove any interfering hair at the edge (if policy allows), and re-secure the drape using adhesive and/or clamps so the edge lies flat and adheres firmly. Proceeding with the current drape, delaying until after surgery, or stopping the case and converting to a non-draped field would all leave the sterile barrier compromised or introduce unnecessary delays.