knobs, handles and overall bulk. Plastic anesthesia machine covers
could help guard against cross-contamination, but we need more
research showing they work.
Ports and stopcocks
Any time you inject IV drugs, you should think about the poten-
tial for contamination. Ports and stopcocks are 2 common culprits for
potentially pathogenic bacteria. As a rule, anesthesia providers should
only use disinfected ports for IV access. You can disinfect ports with a
sterile, alcohol-based wipe before each use, but we recommend using
isopropyl alcohol-containing caps. This option makes ports available
whenever you need them. It's simpler and safer. Stopcocks should
have closed injection ports installed to convert them into "closed
ports," as well. Cap your stopcocks with an isopropyl alcohol cover
and you're good to go.
3
Anesthesia Alert
AA
4 2 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • M A R C H 2 0 1 9
Here are 5 examples of when anes-
thesia providers should perform
hand hygiene.
1. Before aseptic tasks, such as
inserting central venous catheters,
inserting arterial catheters,
drawing meds and spiking IV bags.
2. After removing gloves.
3. When hands are soiled or contaminated.
4. Before touching the contents of the anesthesia cart.
5. When entering and exiting the OR (even after removing gloves).
— SHEA
When Should Anesthesia Clean Their Hands?
