Polymeric articles that include a nanoscopically and/or microscopically rough surface formed on at least a portion of the article. Methods of using and making such articles are also disclosed. In one embodiment, covers for use with a surgical viewing instrument that include the nanoscopically and/or microscopically rough surface are disclosed. The cover includes a cover configured for placement over at least a portion of a surgical viewing instrument, at least a portion of the cover being transparent to light, and a nanoscopically and/or microscopically rough surface formed on at least a portion of the cover. The nanoscopically and/or microscopically rough surface is configured to shed and/or incorporate into a thin, substantially uniform film such droplets, fogs, and debris for providing clearer and less obstructed vision at a surgical, diagnostic or procedure site.
