Research presented at the 2011 annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists found that overly dark operating rooms should "go green" by bathing the room in dim green light, according to an Anesthesiology News report.
Operating room staff often shut off overhead fixtures to give surgeons a clearer view of the monitors. However, this can cause hazards for others in the operating room, including the patient, as staff members can trip over items on the floor, make mistakes in patient records or read medications incorrectly.
Instead of turning off overhead fixtures, the researchers recommended that operating rooms use a "dim green light" that accomplishes the same goal more safely.
The researchers said that while physicians and staff objected to the green light at first, they got used to it quickly.
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Operating room staff often shut off overhead fixtures to give surgeons a clearer view of the monitors. However, this can cause hazards for others in the operating room, including the patient, as staff members can trip over items on the floor, make mistakes in patient records or read medications incorrectly.
Instead of turning off overhead fixtures, the researchers recommended that operating rooms use a "dim green light" that accomplishes the same goal more safely.
The researchers said that while physicians and staff objected to the green light at first, they got used to it quickly.
Related Articles on Anesthesia:
Anesthesiologist Dr. Edward Lin Invents Device to Improve Complex Chronic Wound Care
Oak Brook Surgical Center Physician Dr. Eugene Lipov Develops Treatment for PTSD
Mayo Clinic Anesthesia May Increase Risk of ADHD in Children