Ace the CIC Challenge 2026 – Master Infection Prevention and Rock Your Career!

Improperly handled sterile supplies in a clinical setting primarily lead to infection transmission. Sterile supplies are designed to be free from microorganisms, and when they are not handled correctly — for example, if they are exposed to contaminants or not stored in a sterile environment — there is a significant risk that pathogens can be introduced to patients during procedures. This can result in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which can complicate patient recovery, extend hospital stays, and increase healthcare costs.

While factors like patient anxiety, documentation errors, and potential legal ramifications are important to consider in healthcare settings, they are secondary effects stemming from the consequences of infection transmission. The direct health risk posed by improperly managed sterile supplies is paramount, making infection control critical in ensuring patient safety and maintaining the integrity of healthcare practices.