Ambulatory care design can improve sterile processing

Risks can be reduced with 'process-driven' design and planning


'Process-driven' design and planning during the renovation of a multi-specialty ambulatory surgical center can reduce risks, lower costs and improve quality of care, according to an article on the Medical Construction & Design website.

As the workflow of instrument processing was studied, it was discovered that a vast majority of instruments required very similar paths. The workflow diagram highlighted several potential risks in the sterile processing approach that could be addressed. These included:

• Lack of physical separation between intraocular and non-ophthalmologic surgical instruments

•  Splashing of water during manual cleaning process poses the greatest risk of contamination

• Instruments unnecessarily cross paths in the decontamination area

With a clear understanding of this department’s detailed workflow, the team was able to create a diagram to illustrate how a limited separation and careful positioning of cleanup sinks in decontamination can create an effective and safe workflow, the article said.

Read the article.

 

 



December 15, 2014


Topic Area: Renovations


Recent Posts

Parking: Where the Outpatient Land Crunch Shows First

Healthcare systems that treat parking as a strategic design variable from the first feasibility pass will have more sites to choose from.


Clear Behavioral Health Opens New Outpatient Mental Health Center in Anaheim Hills

It offers an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for adults and teens ages 13 to 17 across east Anaheim and the surrounding communities.


Bon Secours Begins Construction on Freestanding Emergency Department in Norfolk

It is expected to open in late 2027.


The OR HVAC Puzzle: Why Individual Systems Are on the Rise

Extra penetrations, tight clearances and strict humidity needs—design experts explain what it really takes to plan dedicated units for each operating room.


Skanska Completes Renovation of Specialized Care Facility for Sutter Health

The project was delivered through a highly coordinated effort, utilizing advanced construction methodologies to maintain efficiency.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.