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that larger stores utilise much revenue; equipment may also go out of date and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
sisters 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.