Let s take a few minutes to review why getting the surgical environment ready is key to infection prevention. Cross Contamination Cross contamination is the transmission of microorganisms between patients, between healthcare workers and patients, and between inanimate objects and patients. Key infection prevention measures in the OR should focus on minimizing cross contamination. This can be accomplished through the surgical team s attention to aseptic principles and techniques, the creation and maintenance of a clean surgical environment, and the conscience effort to practice good handwashing techniques. Patterns Good traffic control practices protect personnel, patients, supplies, and equipment from potential sources of cross-contamination.
Traffic flow is based on aseptic principles and depends on the surgical suite design.
The surgical suite should be divided into three designated areas or zones that are defined by the perioperative activities performed in each area. The unrestricted area usually includes entrances and exits to the surgical suite, patient holding areas, postanesthesia recovery units, supply receiving areas, offices, and locker rooms. Street clothes are acceptable attire in this area and traffic is not limited. The semi-restricted area includes access corridors to the ORs and substerile areas, clean and sterile supply storage areas, and work areas for storing and processing instruments and equipment. Appropriate surgical attire, including hair coverings, is required in this area, and traffic is limited to authorized personnel and patients.