Introduction to the Operating Room
LESSON 1: ORIENTATION
1-29
1-29. RULES
a. Discussion. Cleaning routines and procedures may vary somewhat among hospitals, but they are based upon a number of rules, which should always be observed. These rules are as follows:
(1) The formation and the dispersion of dust should be suppressed.
(2) Time should be allowed for dust to settle.
(3) Dust and soiled laundry should not be allowed to accumulate.
(4) A systematic housekeeping plan should be followed.
(5) Periodic cultures of the floors should be taken before and after cleaning, as should cultures of the air in an oOR during periods of minimum and maximum activity.
b. Local Policy. Within the surgical suite of a hospital, the time and the frequency for cleaning the various areas in the suite will be done as a matter of routine. This routine, as well as the specific procedure to be used, is included in the OR policy. Although various cleaning procedures are set forth in the following paragraphs for the information of the specialist, he should follow local policy when performing cleaning assignments.
