Which practice helps limit contamination risk in the operating room during joint replacement?

• A. Limited door openings
• B. Frequent staff rotation
• C. Using non-sterile gloves
• D. Keeping doors open

Answer: (A)

Limiting door openings helps keep the surgical environment stable and clean. Each time the door opens, air from the corridor rushes into the operating room, disturbing the controlled airflow that helps keep the sterile field free of dust and microorganisms. This disturbance can carry contaminants toward the wound or instruments, increasing the risk of infection after a joint replacement. By keeping doors closed as much as possible, the room maintains its positive pressure and laminar flow, reducing the chance that contaminants enter the sterile zone.

Frequent staff movement would raise traffic and air disturbances, and using non-sterile gloves or keeping doors open would both compromise sterility and airflow. So, limiting door openings is the most effective way to minimize contamination risk in this setting.