scotsnurse72

We check trays for holes before we open trays, when we are setting up for the following day, especially trays that we need which we only have 1 or 2 of, in case it needs to be resterilised for the next day. Especially the orthopaedic trays and our bookwalter retractor. Our trays come double wrapped, inside metal trolleys which are sent from the central sterilising unit in trucks so the trays can get moved about inside the trolleys during transport. The sterilising unit don't see our problems and aren't keen to change the delivery methods of our trays. I'd say at least 5-10% of our trays have a problem with the wrapping. I like the idea of holding the wrapper up to the light to look for small holes. I think I might suggest that one in the department will keep many people happy.

Hi I agree with the rest of your replies. I'm right handed and pass most of my instruments over with my left hand, especially as I'm usually standing beside the surgeon and I was taught not to pass my arm over in front of the surgeon unless it is totally avoidable. Once you find what is comforable for you then it will be like you never had any problems. The other danger with loading scalpel handles with your non dominant hand is that you could slip and injure yourself on the blade, so just be careful, especially with contaminated blades. It just takes practice, practice, practice.... GOOD LUCK :)

Hi Everyone I'm new to allnurses.com and am at present in the process of completing an anaesthetic assistant course at university. I work in a sick children's hospital in the united kingdom, working with neonates up to children aged approx 16 years old. At present we don't have any protocols in place for routine warming of patients. My assessment is an essay on prevention of perioperative hypothermia. I'm managing to get articles to use for referencing but I'm having problems putting it all together. You may have guessed I'm not very academic Can anyone give me any tips? I'd also be delighted to hear what other hospitals are doing for routine warming of patients during anaesthesia and if they have any protocols in place. Thanks so much Elaine :bowingpur:bowingpur:bowingpur