At PMT-Solutions, we engage actively in the design and planning process, together with our client, architects, planners, engineers and medical experts, to achieve an optimal environment which ensures the best workflow processes and working conditions in hospitals. All the planning phases are executed by our Project Management Office in close collaboration with the client. This ensures that we create a tailored solution for our client that has our client’s full endorsement.

HISTORY OF OPERATING ROOM EQUIPMENT

The history of operating room equipment is expansive, and varies depending on the piece of equipment. Some of the earliest operating rooms, also known as operating theaters, were used in the early 1800s. Surgeries were performed during daylight hours as there was no electricity. Additionally, candles were often used for extra lighting.

In the United States, sterile technique was not used until the 1890s and surgeons only washed their hands after the surgical procedure.

By the 1900s, asepsis, or the prevention of bacteria from entering a wound or sterile equipment, became practice. Operating equipment could be made sterile through boiling, using autoclaves, and chemical antiseptics. Physicians started to wear white coats, and beds and operating tables were made with clean linens.

OPERATING ROOM EQUIPMENT USES

Which medical equipment is chosen for an operating room depends on the facility and patient need. For example, high-complexity operating rooms may require a sophisticated, cutting edge OR integration system. Small Ambulatory Surgery Centers may have a smaller budget, which could impact their purchase decisions. Regardless of the facility or use, each piece of equipment serves its own vital purpose in the OR:

  • Surgical lights are used for the lighting of a surgical site
  • Operating tables are used for a patient to lay on during a surgical procedure, and may be adjusted for depending on the procedure
  • Surgical booms hide electrical cords attached to various pieces of equipment in the OR to reduce tripping hazards. They can house equipment rendering it mobile and able to be positioned in a variety of locations around the room
  • Surgical displays are used to display a detailed view of the surgical site for clear visualization
  • Operating room integration systems allow OR staff to coordinate and collaborate on medical decisions through video and imaging connections
  • Blanket warmers are used to store and warm intravenous (IV) fluid, linens, and blankets
  • Scrub sinks are used by OR staff to “scrub in” before a surgery, reducing the risk of infection
  • Nurse documentation stations are used to house electronic equipment, and provide a desk for reporting and charting purposes