SECOND HAND Why toss out gowns and gloves that are opened but unused?

Waste Not
Recycle Unused Gowns and Gloves

If gowns and gloves get opened during a procedure, but don't get used (and aren't soiled), don't discard them. Keep them in a central area. Staff or anesthesia can use them if they get cold, they can be used in non-sterile procedures or during cleaning and reprocessing. The same goes for any supply that you have in your custom packs (for example, towels). If they're unused during a procedure, try to find another use and recycle.

Greg DeConciliis, PA-C, CASC
Boston Out-Patient Surgical Suites
Waltham, Mass.
[email protected]