In a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control, researchers investigated the impact of forced-air warming blowers on patient safety and quality in operating rooms, according to the study's abstract.
Forced-air warmers are commonly used in healthcare facilities to prevent hypothermia for patients during surgical procedures. The FAWs should be free of contaminants in order to minimize the risk of surgical site infection. To evaluate its impact on quality in ORs, researchers assessed internal air path surface swabs and performed hose outlet particle counts on 52 FAWs.
Results showed filter efficiencies decline from approximately 94 percent in some models (model 200708C) to 61 percent in new models (model 200708D). Researchers concluded the differences were due to the design of the FAWs. Additionally, 58 percent of the FAWs were internally generating and releasing airborne contaminants.
Researchers concluded design is a key determinant in preventing emission of microbial contaminants into the OR.
Read the study about forced-air warmers in ORs.
Read other coverage about quality in ASCs:
- Tip: Use Software to Improve Tissue and Implant Tracking for Infection Control
- Practical Guidance on Strengthening California ASCs' Infection Control Programs
- Safety Enhanced Disposal Device Could Prevent Needlestick-, Sharps-Related Injuries
Forced-air warmers are commonly used in healthcare facilities to prevent hypothermia for patients during surgical procedures. The FAWs should be free of contaminants in order to minimize the risk of surgical site infection. To evaluate its impact on quality in ORs, researchers assessed internal air path surface swabs and performed hose outlet particle counts on 52 FAWs.
Results showed filter efficiencies decline from approximately 94 percent in some models (model 200708C) to 61 percent in new models (model 200708D). Researchers concluded the differences were due to the design of the FAWs. Additionally, 58 percent of the FAWs were internally generating and releasing airborne contaminants.
Researchers concluded design is a key determinant in preventing emission of microbial contaminants into the OR.
Read the study about forced-air warmers in ORs.
Read other coverage about quality in ASCs:
- Tip: Use Software to Improve Tissue and Implant Tracking for Infection Control
- Practical Guidance on Strengthening California ASCs' Infection Control Programs
- Safety Enhanced Disposal Device Could Prevent Needlestick-, Sharps-Related Injuries
