A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 O U T P A T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T 4 3
that tether electrically
powered tools to an outlet
(and, previously, the hoses
that supplied compressed
air to pneumatic devices).
Removing cords from
the equation reduces the
risk that your equipment
will inadvertently contami-
nate the sterile field, and
leaves one less thing to
tangle and trip team mem-
bers' feet. Keep in mind,
however, that batteries
require charging. So you'll
want to know how long each tool's battery can provide power and how long it
takes to fully recharge.
A battery that lasts through an entire case is essential, but you also need
backup batteries on hand in case the tool is needed in back-to-back proce-
dures, since it's unlikely that charging can be completed within the length of a
room turnover. If instrument reprocessing might also limit the repeated use of
a power tool, invest in enough inventory to accommodate your surgeons and
scheduled cases.
If you're seeking setup efficiency, involve nurses and techs — even those
working outside the OR — in your power tool trials and in-service training
sessions. Their abilities to properly assemble, disassemble and track the com-
ponents of these tools will be keys to case preparation and fast room turnover
times. Find out how quickly and conveniently a tool's batteries can be
replaced in mid-procedure. And make sure that your sterile processing depart-
• RIGHT ANGLES Ergonomically designed tools enable effective surgical technique while
reducing fatigue.
