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

How Efficiency Checklists Help Hospitals Save Energy, Water and Money

Keith Edgerton explains how a simple, systematic tool can help healthcare facilities identify savings, support sustainability goals and reinvest in long-term decarbonization.


Designing with Heart: Seen Health Center Blends Cultural Warmth and Clinical Care

Case study: The Alhambra-based facility uses Wilsonart Woodgrains to create a space where comfort, tradition and durability come together for an elevated senior care experience.


Rutgers Health and University Hospital Breaks Ground on Campus Expansion

The groundbreaking follows the long-awaited demolition of administrative offices built in the 1970s.


What to Consider When Modernizing Healthcare Facilities

While there has been a call to preserve old buildings, healthcare facilities need to weigh the options of patient care.


Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital to Build New Tower

The tower is expected to be completed in 2030.


 
 


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.