Operating room lights burn patients at Oregon hospital

Hospital staff changes diffusers on the halogen lights but leaves out the filters


At least 10 patients at an Oregon hospital were burned because staff didn't replace filters on lights in three operating rooms, according to an article on The Columbian website.

Staff at Silverton Hospital changed diffusers on the halogen lights in September 2013 but left out the filters, hospital officials said. 

The first cases of skin burns came to the hospital's attention the following June and a hospital investigation pinpointed the cause five months later in November, the article said.

Halogen lamps emit ultraviolet light and must have filters. The filter is often incorporated into the bulb's glass, but some lamps require separate ones.

It took several months to figure out the cause of the burns, because the hospital initially looked at more common culprits: solutions used to prep skin before surgery, bandages or dressings used after surgery, and cautery devices used to stop bleeding during surgery.

Read the article.

 

 



January 27, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

The Growing Crisis in Rural Healthcare Facilities

Outdated buildings, reactive planning and complex funding are forcing rural leaders to rethink their strategies.


A Cleaning Alternative: The Benefits of Steam Technology

Cleaning is essential in healthcare facilities, but traditional disinfectants have harmful chemicals. Researchers say that steam technology may be the solution.


Novant Health Gets Approval for New Hospital and Freestanding Emergency Department

The new facilities will elevate access to healthcare in North Carolina’s fastest-growing county.


Preparing Healthcare Facilities for Severe Thunderstorms

Hardening plans and collaboration with local stakeholders can aid in prep for severe weather.


University of South Carolina Opens New Brain Health Center

The center is aimed at expanding access to specialized care for patients with cognitive conditions.


 
 


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.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.