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canister is still considered RMW that adds the weight of the canister to the RMW
disposal costs.
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A.
Solidifiers can be added to the suction canister and disposed of in red bags;
however, this can still predispose surgical and environmental personnel to
splashing and spills of potentially infectious material.
B.
It is recommended that surgery departments install an automatic fluid
management system (FMS) that flushes blood and body fluids directly to
the sanitary sewer to increase safety for the staff, decrease the amount of
RMW and offer other long-term cost-savings such as a reduction in the
transportation costs of RMW.
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(1)
FMS are stationary and connected directly into the sanitary sewer
of the HDO or situated on a portable cart that allows for automated
drainage to the sanitary sewer.
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However, depending on the
system purchased by the HDO there are three types of canisters
that are recommended for use by the OR.
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(a) Some FMS require the use of a reusable canister that is
disinfected between uses.
(b) An integrated canister system is one that is completely
enclosed.
(c) Some FMS still utilize disposable canisters that can be
placed in the regular trash after disinfecting with an
enzymatic cleaner. However, this system still
contributes to purchasing and disposal costs, and the
canisters are not calibrated in order to measure patient
fluid loss.
C.
The CDC’s publication
The Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control
in Healthcare Facilities
, 2003, states that sanitary sewers may be used for
safe disposal of blood and suctioned fluids, as long as the HDO meets local
sewage discharge requirements, and the state has approved of the disposal
method.
(1)
It is recommended the HDO receives the approval by local and
state water officials for the disposal of blood and body fluids into
the sanitary sewer prior to purchasing a FMS.
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Guideline IX
The surgery department should utilize water and energy conservation technologies.
1.
Due to the surgery department being a significant source of water usage, it should
be targeted for installing water conserving methods.
A.
Low-flow fixtures should be installed in urinals, toilets and showers.
B.
Motion-sensing devices should be used at the scrub sinks.
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C.
Technology for reclaiming water should be installed in the department as
long as the reclamation of water does not interfere with infection control,
patient safety and sterilization methods.
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