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Operating Theater Equipment Safety

Operating theaters require a keen attention to safety, both for the patients and for all staff who are performing, assisting or supervising an operation. Safety procedures go beyond basic sterilization, although that is a very important part of making an operating theater safe. Every hospital or clinic will have its own procedures, all of which should aim to achieve the highest possible level of safety.

  1. Sterilization

    • Completely sterilized tools are the first line of defense against devastating infections. All reuseable tools and equipment should be thoroughly cleaned immediately after surgery, while needles, gloves and other disposable materials should be disposed of immediately in biohazard receptacles.

    Blood and Exposure to Bodily Fluid

    • Operating room staff risk injury to themselves when exposed to blood or other bodily fluids. There is also a danger for the patient. Most of these injuries occur while using surgical sharps like scalpels, needles, scissors or suturing incisions. To avoid these types of injuries, all sharp objects should be disposed of or placed safely out of the way immediately after use. Empty all waste receptacles regularly and never allow them to overflow, risking protruding needle points. Use proper masks and gloves when handling all sharp objects, and exercise caution when suturing incisions and inserting or removing needles. If exposure does occur, rinse the area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes and report it to your supervisor.

    Airborne Particulate Release

    • Many procedures in the operating theater will release particulates into the air that can carry viruses or other pathogens. Always wear secure goggles and face protection and use suction to remove these particulates before they can escape into the air.

    Waste Gases

    • Gaseous anesthetic is intended for the patient only, and if it is mistakenly released into the OR it can cause severe side effects for the staff, including loss of fine motor skills. Inspect anesthetic equipment, including tubes and masks, to make sure there are no leaks.

    Other Physical Injuries

    • Head injuries and slips or falls can occur in operating theaters just as in any other workplace. Avoid these accidents by cleaning any spills immediately and keeping all equipment away from areas where it may become a tripping hazard. Keep adjustable lights up and out of the way until they are needed, and move them up as soon as you are finished using them. Avoid electrical shocks by unplugging equipment properly (by the plug, not the cord) and never using faulty or defective equipment. Keep equipment in good repair and have it serviced regularly. Use appropriate safety equipment, like eye protection, if lasers are being used.

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