A nurse is preparing a sterile field. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

In establishing a sterile field, the first action a nurse should perform is to center the sterile pack on the work surface. This step is crucial because it provides a designated, clear area for the sterile items, minimizing the risk of contamination. By placing the sterile pack in the center, the nurse ensures that there is sufficient space to open and arrange the sterile items safely, minimizing the chance of touching non-sterile surfaces during the setup.

Once the sterile pack is centered, the nurse can then proceed with opening the flaps in a manner that maintains sterility. The actions of grasping the outermost flap or opening specific flaps come into play only after the initial positioning of the sterile pack, making this initial step foundational for a safe and effective sterile field setup. Proper order and technique are essential in maintaining the integrity of the sterile field throughout the procedure.