Using back-to-basics checklists, we audit whether the correct prep-
ping agent is being used; whether staff is wearing the correct attire
(designated gown and sterile gloves); and if they followed our poli-
cy/manufacturers' recommended instructions for use. With a dozen
people doing these, we wind up performing 90 to 100 audits per
month at our facility. Of course, we're a 33-OR academic hospital.
The resources we have simply aren't feasible for a small ASC. The
key with audits is to do what's reasonable for your setting — hone in
on a target you can hit consistently.
In terms of education, everyone received formal training once we
overhauled our prep process to include the designated prepping gown.
Then, after that, we generally hold an annual education in-service on
skin prepping. But if our audits reveal any slips in technique or process
completion, we'll hold impromptu refreshers. Speaking of education,
there's no need to reinvent the wheel. Take advantage of what your
vendor reps offer in the form of clinical education. One of our solution
vendors has a clinical person who comes into our facility and offers
5 8 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9
• 3-MINUTE DRY TIME To ensure that preps have enough time to dry, place a store-bought timer in each OR and magneti-
cally attach it to your whiteboards. You can't drape the patient until the timer goes off.
