Community Approach Implementing Safety Zone

ISSUE: In our community there are seven hospitals. Physicians and employees may work in two or more facilities. Every facility has their own policy manual and the policies may be interpreted differently at each facility. Historically, this confusion has resulted in decreased understanding and compliance with policies. The Operating Room leadership of these hospitals chose to implement the use of a Safety Zone and manditory safety glasses for all personnel in the OR. It was decided to try a collaborative effort to reduce confusion and resistance. PROJECT: Representatives of area hospitals from the Operating Room, Employee Health and Infection Control met to form the Treasure Valley Operating Room Safety Collaborative. Their goal was to reduce bloodborne pathogen exposures in the OR. Current and needed safety practices were reviewed. The team developed a safe zone policy to be used in all ORs in the area. An educational PowerPoint was created to be used for the education of physicians and employees. Safety products were trialed and standardization of products was accomplished. Implementation of the policy started on September 15, 2004. Baseline data regarding exposure rates in the Operating Room from sharps injury and splashes was obtained from the Occupation Health database. Direct costs were totaled and an average cost per exposure was calculated. Concurrent observations were done by the Infection Control Department on the number of times a safe zone was used and the number of personnel wearing face/eye protection. Data was shared with the members of the Collaborative, Employee Health Safety Committee, OR committee, OR leadeship, physicians and staff members. RESULTS: Observations demonstrated the use of appropriate eyewear and safe zone has increased from 50% to 95%. This has resulted in a decrease in splash and sharp exposures in the Operating Room. Decreased exposures reduced expenditure by the Occupational Health Department. LESSONS LEARNED: A collaborative effort by Community hospitals resulted in standardization of practice and educational material. Standardization increases physician and employee compliance.