What is the purpose of the back table in the sterile field?

• A. It serves as a cooling area for instruments.
• B. It is where the patient sits pre-op.
• C. It holds sterile instruments and supplies that are opened onto the sterile field for use during the procedure.
• D. It is used to organize patient meals.

Answer: (C)

The back table provides the central sterile staging area for instruments and supplies that will be opened onto the sterile field for use during the procedure. It keeps sterile items organized and within easy reach, arranged in the order they’ll be used, and maintains sterility as the team transfers tools to the operative field. This surface stays within the sterile field to prevent contamination, unlike areas used for patient seating or meals.