AORN journal
-
This article reviews current literature about the contamination of laryngoscope blades and handles, disinfection practices for laryngoscope blades and handles, and environmental effects and costs of reusable and single-use laryngoscopes. This review shows that inadequately processed rigid laryngoscopes may have the ability to transmit infections to patients and health care personnel. ⋯ Laryngoscope costs are lower for processing reusable laryngoscope handles and blades by HLD and highest for single-use laryngoscopes. Evidence-based guidelines are needed to specify and standardize best practices for processing rigid laryngoscopes.
-
Inadvertent perioperative hypothermia is a widely known patient condition that is associated with postoperative complications. This retrospective comparative study of 298 surgical patients was conducted at a single hospital site in the midwestern United States. Our aims were to describe risk factors and outcomes associated with perioperative hypothermia. ⋯ Significant factors associated with the occurrence of perioperative hypothermia included older age and type of surgery. Hypothermia in patients was associated with a higher rate of postoperative complications when compared with normothermic patients. Nurses and perioperative leaders should understand the risk factors and complications associated with perioperative hypothermia to collaboratively develop and test evidence-based initiatives, improve care, and promote optimal patient outcomes.
-
After an evaluation of the growing robotics program at Christiana Care Health System in Newark, Delaware, perioperative leaders identified needs related to a lack of instrument set standardization and inconsistent workflow processes; these deficiencies were causing higher-than-anticipated turnaround time (ie, 59 minutes) and an excessive inventory of sterilized robotic instruments. A workgroup was created to review the results of the evaluation and develop solutions for the robotic surgery program. ⋯ By developing a team training program, improving operational efficiencies, and improving standardization, the robotics program achieved a 10-minute TAT reduction and a 54% reduction in sterilized robotic instrument inventory. Personnel considered the project to be a huge success because it laid the groundwork for improving efficiency and standardization in Christiana Care Health System's robotics program.