Ideas That Work: Time-Out Tip

Want to help ensure your OR team covers fire safety during pre-op time outs? Affix a small flame graphic to the lower left-hand corner of every mobile workstation screen to prompt them to discuss how they'll keep fuels, heat sources and oxygen separate whenever electrocautery, lasers and high-speed orthopedic drills are used during procedures. We printed the simple flame graphic off the Internet (you can find one by searching Google images), made color copies and laminated each one before sticking them to the workstation screens. Our circulating nurses say the tiny flames serve as a visual cue to remind them to address fire risks before surgery begins.

Jeanne Schrantz, RN, CNOR
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Pittsburgh, Pa.
[email protected]