Set out below is a depiction of the operation of an O.R. and Sterile Pack Service.

O.R. TEXTILES & STERILE PACKS

During invasive medical procedures protection must be provided for the patient, the physicians and the staff to prevent any transfer of potential infection. For this reason all textiles, including drapes, wraps, towels, sponges and gowns used in the operating room must be sterile and totally free of all bacteria and potential infection.

O.R. & STERILE PACK SERVICE

In an O.R. and Sterile Pack service, operating room linen would normally be processed in the following manner:

1. Textiles are sorted, washed, dried and further separated by classification. Expensive products may have imbedded radio frequency chips that identify the sending facility and track the number of processes of each garment.
2. Textiles are then inspected for holes and patched using micro-fiber patches.
3. Individual textiles are then folded and stacked in preparation for pack making.
4. Packs are then assembled to include the exact product required for each procedure (i.e. single gown packs, major packs, minor packs).
5. Packs are then stacked on carts that are placed in an autoclave for sterilization.
6. Following sterilization, orders are assembled and packs are sealed in plastic and shipped directly to facilities in closed O.R. carts.

THE STERILIZATION PROCESS

During a 45-60 minute cycle in a steam sterilizer that generates pressures of about 29 psi (pounds per square inch), textiles reach temperature of approximately 274 degrees Fahrenheit. This process ensures that sterilization occurs. Packs are then transferred to a sealed cooling down room that is maintained virtually bacteria free. Cleanliness in maintained by a strict disinfection routine, by positive air pressure and the filtering of air through multiple air changes per hour. Access is controlled in this area and all staff is required to wear protective clothing, gloves, shoe covers, masks and gowns before entering the room.

BENEFITS OF AN O.R. STERILE PACK SYSTEM

Savings are realized in a number of ways as calculated on a cost per use basis with an O.R. reusable textiles program as compared to using disposable products. Some of the key reasons for reduced costs include:

1. The per-use cost of reusable products is less than disposable products.
2. The most appropriate level of protection (I – IV) can be used for each operation.
3. More comfortable and breathable products can be worn by physicians and staff.
4. Infectious waste is greatly reduced, thereby reducing the cost of waste removal.
5. Packs can be standardized to minimize waste and O.R. staff set-up time.