Which of the following practices is commonly associated with surgical asepsis?

Creating a sterile field for operations is a fundamental aspect of surgical asepsis. This practice involves establishing an area that is free from all microorganisms, which is crucial in surgical settings where the risk of infection is heightened due to incisions and exposure of internal tissues. Maintaining a sterile field is essential for preventing surgical site infections, and it requires meticulous preparation, including the use of sterile instruments, gloves, and drapes.

In contrast, handwashing before patient contact and wearing gloves and masks during routine care are important practices in maintaining cleanliness and preventing infections but are typically associated with medical asepsis rather than surgical asepsis. Cleaning surfaces with disinfectants is also a standard practice for maintaining a clean environment in healthcare settings but does not specifically address the sterile technique required in surgical procedures. Therefore, the creation of a sterile field is the distinguishing practice of surgical asepsis.