Introduction to the Operating Room
LESSON 1: ORIENTATION
1-11
Section III. FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT
1-11. INTRODUCTION
a. Discussion. The types of equipment and its arrangement will vary in different installations according to individual needs and preferences. Adequate but not excessive equipment should be available and arranged so that maximum efficiency is obtained with minimum effort. Modern OR equipment with but few exceptions is made of unpainted, durable, and easily cleaned corrosion-resistant metal (CRM). In addition, most of the items are equipped with casters to enable them to be moved quietly and with the least possible effort. The casters are made of conductive material--either metal or conductive rubber--for the same reason that floors are conductive (refer to paragraph 1-7b).
b. Illustrations. Many of the figures in this lesson show equipment used in Army hospital ORs. Equipment for use in the field is similar to that shown, except that bulky items for field use are characteristically constructed to permit knockdown (refer to paragraph 1-3b). The equipment shown in this lesson is that which is typically used during surgery. This type of equipment is considered standard items and is listed in the Federal Supply Catalog. A cardioscope, which is not shown, is used only for special kinds of surgery and will be purchased through normal channels. Any item not listed in the Federal Supply Catalog is nonstandard, if needed, and must be obtained through a local purchase request.
