Management of the operating suite

There is good evidence that theatre safety is based on good management. This implies a good staff relationship with the appropriate training facilities and schedules to maintain morale. A good career structure will enhance standards and provide a good reputation, enhancing future recruitment. High standards and patient safety are at a premium. Additional points that must be considered in the safer running of theatres include:

•  a ready supply of clean linen;

•  safe disposal of dirty linen and waste products;

•  rapid transfer of instruments to and from CSSD to avoid delay;

•  adequate pharmaceutical supplies with close liaison with the pharmacy;

•  monitoring of the medical and surgical supplies and requisitions so that excess stocks of items do not accumulate; conversely the amount of expensive emergency ordering must be cut to a minimum. It should be remembered that larger stores utilise much revenue; equipment may also go out of date and this is wasteful. Stock level checking is an important part of the theatre sister’s role but does require time;

•  transfer of specimens to the laboratory — this should take place on a regular basis. The use of sealed containers in a vacuum tube system for small specimens is highly efficient;

•  instrument maintenance is essential and saves money;

•  there should be close liaison with the electronics, central sterile supply and theatre infection control officer;

•  health and safety rules and procedures should be understood by all staff;

•  an accident record should be kept, and regular audit should take place.