What is a disadvantage of reusable drapes?

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Multiple Choice

What is a disadvantage of reusable drapes?

Explanation:
Porosity determines how well a drape can act as a barrier. Reusable drapes are made from woven fabric that is inherently porous, so fluids and microbes can pass through if the fabric isn’t intact or perfectly clean. In the sterile field, this makes maintaining dryness and sterility more challenging, especially as fabric wears, tears, or loses strength after repeated laundering and sterilization. The risk of fluid penetration and microbial transfer is higher with porous reusable drapes, which is why porosity is considered a disadvantage compared with non-porous disposable drapes that are designed to provide a reliable barrier.

Porosity determines how well a drape can act as a barrier. Reusable drapes are made from woven fabric that is inherently porous, so fluids and microbes can pass through if the fabric isn’t intact or perfectly clean. In the sterile field, this makes maintaining dryness and sterility more challenging, especially as fabric wears, tears, or loses strength after repeated laundering and sterilization. The risk of fluid penetration and microbial transfer is higher with porous reusable drapes, which is why porosity is considered a disadvantage compared with non-porous disposable drapes that are designed to provide a reliable barrier.

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