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Is it possible to conduct around-the-clock disinfection in your ORs? One surgical
facility leader says, yes, it can be done.
The Ambulatory Surgery Center of Spartanburg (S.C.) recently swapped out the
overhead lights in one of its ORs with light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures that bathe
surfaces in germ-killing 405 nm visible light. Although harmless to humans, the
ambient light from these fixtures eradicates Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus
faecalis and other resilient bugs that might make it past your terminal clean,
according to Administrator Mike Pankey, RN, MBA.
"We wanted to start a total joint program, and as part of that effort we wanted to
do everything we could to drive down our infection risk," says Mr. Pankey.
The LEDs run continuously, and room sensors switch automatically between 2
modes. A "white" disinfection mode, which bathes the room in disinfecting ambient
light, runs when the room is occupied. A deeper-cleaning "indigo" mode amps up
the killing power when the room's not in use.
Although it's too soon to put a number to the the LEDs' impact, Mr. Pankey cites
studies showing that the high-intensity narrow-spectrum light kills at least 70%
more bacteria in the air and on surfaces than routine cleaning (osmag.net/hm5peq);
the LEDs cost a fraction of whole-room disinfection robots; and, once they're
installed, they require no additional maintenance. — Bill Donahue
CONTINUOUS KILL
Disinfect Your ORs 24/7
• ALWAYS ON In "white" mode, the disinfecting lights offer ambient lighting and continuous disinfection during surgery. An "indi-
go" mode provides a deeper clean for when the OR is not in use.
