h. Special Surgical Needs. The Surgical Specialties require consideration of
special needs. For example, flush-mounted snap-lock water connections for the heart-
lung machine, X-ray facilities, space for neurocryosurgery, and special outlets for air-
powered equipment may be required. SomeSpecialties use fiber optics, a laser
apparatus, special built-in television, or cine cameras. Each service is consulted for any
anticipated special needs that will require preparation, operation, or maintenance by the
nursing service.
1-8.
LIGHTING
a. Ordinary lighting for the OR is adequately provided by fixtures recessed into
the ceilings. To provide additional light over the operative area, there is a special
overhead light fixture (see figure 1-6) suspended from the ceiling. This fixture is
designed to provide shadow-free lighting on the operative area, to give off a minimum
amount of heat, and to be easily cleaned and adjusted. The specialist should practice
adjusting this light so that he can make changes quickly and accurately during surgery.
The ceiling lights and the operating lights are on different circuits to avoid confusion and
delay if a fuse burns out.
Figure 1-6. Operating room lights.
MD0923
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