When placing four towels to square off the surgical site, where should the first towel be positioned?

The first towel should be positioned closest to the person who is placing the towels, which is typically the surgical assistant or the scrub nurse. This positioning creates a solid base from which the other towels can be placed to square off the surgical site properly. By starting closest to themselves, the assistant can maintain control and ensure that the towels are laid out in a manner that is functional and maintains the sterility of the area. This approach allows for easier adjustments and alignment of the towels as the procedure continues. Proper placement is crucial for establishing a sterile field and ensuring that the surgical site is adequately covered, minimizing the risk of contamination.