overnight. This dusting should be done by the circulator 30 to 60 minutes prior to the
operative procedure to allow the time for the dust particles to settle before sterile packs
and supplies are opened.
(1) The dusting is accomplished by starting with the highest equipment and
working down. The OR overhead light is dusted first, then the table, working from
the center of the room outward and from top to bottom.
(2) As the circulator dusts and sets up the equipment, he conserves steps
and energy by checking each piece of equipment at this time.
(a) The overhead light is turned on to check the bulb.
(b) The OR table is checked for proper operation.
(c) The suction machine, electro surgery machine, and other pieces of
equipment in the OR are checked, whether or not they are to be used.
(3) As the supply cupboards are dusted, they are checked to be sure they
are completely stocked. If there is an evening or night shift working in the OR,
one of these persons may be assigned to do the dusting rather than the day
personnel.
(4) When the dusting of the furniture and equipment is finished, the floor is
wet-vacuumed using the germicide prescribed by local policy.
b. Between Cases. Following each operation, the soiled areas of the floor are
wet-vacuumed or damp-mopped and any furniture, which may have become soiled or
damp is cleaned. The kick bucket liner, containing soiled sponges and waste material,
is removed and placed in a waste receptacle for incineration. If the suction machine
was used, the container and tubing are discarded. Also, the apparatus is checked to
make certain that it is functional.
c. At the End of the Day's Schedule. The floors are cleaned as described in
paragraphs 1-31 and 1-32. As the furniture is wheeled back into the room, the furniture
is cleaned with a damp cloth containing a germicidal solution being sure to remove any
stains. Casters on the furniture must be cleaned and any accumulation of suture
materials or dust removed. If the casters require lubrication, only dry graphite or
graphite oil is used. All equipment, such as operating lights, portable lights, and suction
machine, is cleaned. All electrical and mechanical equipment is checked, and any
defected or nonoperational equipment is reported at once for repair. Cabinet, doors,
and windows are damp dusted using a germicidal solution.
MD0923
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