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How to Properly Use Operating Room Instruments During the Covid pandemic

Updated: Jul 31, 2023

Operating room instruments are essential for a successful surgery. The use of these instruments requires proper handling to ensure sterility and safety of the patient. In this article, we will discuss how to maintain sterility in the operating room, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. We will look at the types of operating room instruments, their cleaning and sterilization, and how to avoid dirty instruments in the operating room. We will also discuss technology and innovations for operating room instruments and how to maintain sterility in the operating room during the Covid-19 pandemic.



goofy surgeon looking into the camera


Introduction to the Importance of Maintaining Sterility in the Operating Room

Operating room (OR) instruments are essential for a successful surgery. It is important to maintain sterility in the operating room in order to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and to ensure safety for the patient. This is especially important during the Covid-19 pandemic, when the risk of infection is higher.


The first step in maintaining sterility in the operating room is to properly use and care for the instruments. This involves choosing the right instruments for the procedure, properly cleaning and sterilizing them, and lubricating them to ensure they are in optimal condition. It is also important to avoid using dirty instruments in the operating room, as this can lead to the spread of infection.


Finally, technology and innovations can help to improve the use of operating room instruments. Apps can be used to learn about the different instruments, and automated cleaning systems can help to ensure the instruments are always clean and sterile.




Proper Use and Care of Operating Room Instruments

Before we discuss proper use and care of operating room instruments, it is important to understand the different types of instruments. There are two main types of instruments used in the operating room: reusable and disposable. Reusable instruments are made of metal and can be used multiple times, while disposable instruments are made of plastic and can only be used once.


Types of Operating Room Instruments

Reusable instruments include forceps, clamps, scissors, and retractors. These instruments are made of stainless steel and are designed to be used multiple times. They are usually sterilized after every procedure and should be inspected for damage before use.


Disposable instruments include needles, syringes, and gowns. These instruments are single-use and should be disposed of after use. They are made of plastic and are not designed to be reused.


Cleaning and Sterilization of Operating Room Instruments

Cleaning and sterilization of operating room instruments is essential for maintaining sterility in the operating room. Reusable instruments should be washed with soap and water and then sterilized with a chemical solution. Disposable instruments should be disposed of after use.


In addition to cleaning and sterilizing the instruments, it is important to inspect them for damage. Damaged instruments should be discarded and not used in the operating room.


Surgical Instrument Lubrication

Lubrication of surgical instruments is important to ensure they are functioning properly. Surgical instruments should be lubricated with a lubricant specifically designed for use with surgical instruments. This lubricant should be applied to the instrument before and after use.


Avoiding Dirty Instruments in the Operating Room

To maintain sterility in the operating room, it is important to avoid using dirty instruments. Dirty instruments can spread infection and should be discarded. It is important to inspect instruments for dirt and damage before use, and to properly clean and sterilize them after use.







Technology and Innovations for Operating Room Instruments

Technology and innovations can help to improve the use of operating room instruments. One example is the use of apps to learn about the different instruments. Apps can provide information about the different types of instruments, how to properly use them, and how to clean and sterilize them.


Another example is the use of automated cleaning systems. Automated cleaning systems can be used to clean and sterilize the instruments after each use, ensuring that they are always clean and sterile.




How to Maintain Sterility in the Operating Room During the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has increased the importance of maintaining sterility in the operating room. In addition to proper use and care of instruments, there are several steps that can be taken to ensure sterility in the operating room during the pandemic.


Practicing Social Distancing in the Operating Room

Practicing social distancing is an important step in maintaining sterility in the operating room during the pandemic. It is important to maintain a distance of at least six feet between people in the operating room, and to limit the number of people in the room to only those who are necessary.


Wearing Personal Protective Gear

Wearing personal protective gear is another important step in maintaining sterility in the operating room during the pandemic. It is important to wear a face mask and gloves when in the operating room, and to keep the face mask on at all times.





Disinfecting Operating Room Instruments

Disinfecting operating room instruments is also essential for maintaining sterility in the operating room during the pandemic. It is important to clean and sterilize the instruments after each use, and to avoid using dirty instruments in the operating room.


surgical team operating on a patient



Conclusion

Maintaining sterility in the operating room is essential for a successful surgery and for ensuring the safety of the patient. Proper use and care of operating room instruments is an important step in this process. It is important to choose the right instruments for the procedure, properly clean and sterilize them, lubricate them, and avoid using dirty instruments in the operating room. Technology and innovations can also help to improve the use of operating room instruments. Finally, it is important to take extra precautions during the Covid-19 pandemic, such as practicing social distancing, wearing personal protective gear, and disinfecting instruments. By following these steps, it is possible to ensure sterility in the operating room.




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