She also involved surgical materials coordinators. "Once we
reviewed the evidence, if decisions were made to bring in other
devices to try, we needed someone from the materials and purchasing
angle to assist with that," she explains.
The workgroup reviewed current processes and analyzed 24 patient
safety reports from the previous year to identify issues and problems.
From there, they agreed on best practices, and then held mock posi-
tioning sessions, which were later also provided to OR surgeons,
anesthesiologists and staff. The team also developed pictorial guides
for proper positioning.
During the process, the positioning products the facility used were
evaluated as well. "We always had gel devices, but it was the way in
which we used them that made a difference," says Ms. Rusch. "For
example, instead of using eggcrate foam on our padded arm boards,
we considered using gel and taking the patient anatomy into consider-
ation. We also wanted to use a gel-based axillary roll because the
foam model we used compressed too much."
Importantly, Ms. Rusch implemented a surgical timeout called Pause
5 0 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 0
Reduce Risk of Patients Falling Out
of Position and Cross Contamination
while Extending Positioner Life Spans
Patient Positioner Disposable Drape Packs
• Reduce Risks of Biohazards and Contaminants Harboring
in Tape Residues on Positioners
• Eliminate Damage to Positioners from Harsh Chemicals
or Scraping of Tape Residues
• Decrease Procedure Times (No Need to Re-position,
Re-Tape or Re-Drape)
• Improve Outcomes by Keeping Patients "In Position"
with Secure Straps
Packs Include:
• Disposable, One-Time Use Drape with
Attached Hook & Loop Positioning Straps
(No Tape Required)
• Patient Lift Sheet
LEARN MORE:
www.welmed.us/thermaldrape.php | 847-337-1750 | thermal@welmed.us
