The Joint Commission offers the following ways to address noise levels in the OR.
1. Create a no-interruption zone. This entails prohibiting any conversations and activities that are not crucial to the procedure. This zone applies to a procedure’s most critical phases.
2. Measure OR noise levels. Provide staff members ways to limit noise and give data that show the efficacy of these strategies. It may also prove useful to tell staff in real-time when noise levels are surpassing recommended levels.
3. Staff should undergo training on noise sources and their overall affect on patient and staff safety.
4. Look into other equipment that is less noisy, if applicable.
5. Conduct training to improving attention skills when noise is present
6. Look for ways to minimize noise in an OR’s physical environment.
For more strategies, click here.
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