Operating suites need to run on efficiency to ensure success surgeries. This is a crucial part of the patient’s experience when they are in the hospital for an operation. However, this is also a vital part of the hospital’s budget; to put it simply, an operating theatre is a major cost.
The cost will usually include the kit that is critical in assisting the efficiency, and this will mean investing in high-quality gear. Plus, it can be difficult to understand which equipment is essential. Thankfully, this post has outlined the necessary equipment hospitals need to ensure the operating suite runs smoothly.
Enhance Communication and Scheduling
Effective communication in an operating room (OR) can increase efficiency. This can ensure surgery procedures begin on-time and reduce the number of delayed operations throughout the day. It is essential that the first case in the operating theatre, also known as the “First Case On-Time Start” or FCOS, begins as scheduled.
However, the only way to accomplish this is to ensure all parties are prepared and present before the scheduled operation. This includes the patient, surgeon, nurses, and anesthesiologist. There are several different types of equipment that can be used to help hospital staff achieve this efficiency, including a professional intercom system.
An intercom system allows clear, two-way communication between medical staff in real-time. These systems can be used in multiple wards within the hospital to confirm operating times and other details, which will assist the OR’s efficiency. With an intercom system, communication will be seamless.
Additionally, specifically designed scheduling software for ORs can be utilized to ensure all involved parties are aware of the operation time. Not only will this software cut costs and improve both patient and staff satisfaction, it will also track the current procedure’s progress and signal hospital staff to prepare for the next patient. This will keep the operating theatre running efficiently and reduce interruptions.
Organize Equipment and Supplies
The way equipment and supplies are stored in the operating suite can affect how efficient procedures are. Surgical instruments should be stored in a central location to improve the efficiency and safety of operations. As these items will be easier to locate and access, it will use less time, and time is crucial in the OR. The best place to store operating equipment and supplies is in specially created operating room cabinets.
Although these OR cabinets could be stationary or mobile, they all should be organized so it is easy to access the required equipment. The interior storage will be maximized without losing valuable floor space in the operating theatre. Cabinets that have been designed for ORs will be fitted with the suitable accessories to allow for effective surgery.
To ensure these cabinets are the most systematized and efficient, the weak points should be identified and corrected, and all staff members should be aware of how to properly store supplies. This will reduce equipment loss, too, which could save staff members time when they are unnecessarily searching for missing items.
Provide Good Lighting
The lighting of an OR could impact the accuracy and efficiency of performed surgeries. Medical professionals are less likely to make errors with the right lighting, which will lower the risk of complications. These potential complications could result in longer recovery times for patients. This is why lighting equipment that allows for improved visibility is vital.
Good lighting can be provided by overhead lights, which are usually LED or incandescent. These lights will be can be mounted on the ceiling or wall of the OR, although many are fitted with handles that allows surgical staff to adjust the lighting for improved visualization. This will ensure there is zero glare and surgeons can see the smallest of details, including blood vessels and tissues.
With the proper equipment, operating procedures can run a lot smoother, which means the entire OR will be more efficient.
