What is a critical part of the aseptic technique in surgeries?

In surgical procedures, aseptic technique is paramount to prevent infection and maintain a sterile environment. The correct aspect of aseptic technique involves ensuring that only sterile surfaces may touch each other. This practice is crucial because it minimizes the risk of contamination from non-sterile surfaces and helps maintain the sterility of instruments, drapes, and other materials involved in the procedure.

When only sterile items come into contact with one another, the opportunity for pathogens to enter the surgical site is significantly reduced. This is why establishing and adhering to strict boundaries regarding what may or may not touch sterile surfaces is a fundamental practice in the operating room.

The other options do not align with the principles of aseptic technique. For instance, using non-sterile instruments would directly contravene the goal of preventing infection. Similarly, allowing surfaces to touch freely would increase the risk of contamination, and while using linens to cover instruments can be helpful, it does not encompass the critical aspect of maintaining sterility during procedures as effectively as ensuring that only sterile surfaces touch each other.