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O P H T H A L M O L O G Y
after the fact that you also have to order a sterilization tray in addition
to having to pay for the instruments. "Don't be afraid to ask for protective casing, guards or even trays that you can use for sterilization,"
says Ms. Waters. Some instruments might come in foam packing in a
labeled box. "In this case, be sure to ask if a sterilization case or tray
is available," she says.
3
Do you research whether
ophthalmic instruments you're considering will
be compatible with your sterilization system?
4
Do you prepare sub-specialty trays for some of
your eye surgeons?
Only 2 of our panelists don't take this extra step. "Most ophthalmic
instruments are stainless steel or titanium, which are both steamsterilizable," notes Jackie Dayton, RN, nursing supervisor of the
Surgery Center of Ophthalmology Consult-ants in Fort Wayne, Ind.
A clinical director at a Pennsylvania eye ASC suggests that you
research the type of cycle and length of time needed for sterilization. "Nothing's worse than purchasing an instrument and it not
fitting into your current sterilization system," says Ms. Waters.
Research whether the instrument will fit into your sterilization
system, be it gas, steam or ultrasonic cleanser, she says.
Sentiment here was split. Some facility managers say they're a
great help for turnover time as well as for pulling cases, while others
believe it's more economical and efficient to standardize your eye
instrument trays.
"Specialty trays are a huge help," says Charlotte Alford, RN, manager of the Eye Surgery Center in Shreveport, La. "They provide
faster turnovers, convenience with all items in 1 set, less time
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | J U N E 2013
