What's staining my instruments? We all know that poor steam
or water quality causes most instrument stains, but there are 6
other common staining categories and potential causes. Whether it's
the dark brown staining of low pH caused by improper detergents or
the multicolored stains of localized "hot spots" that occur during pro-
cessing, the book helps you identify and react to these enemies of sur-
gical instruments.
Instrument aliases. Addressing one of the most pervasive barri-
ers to consistent instrument identification, an "also known as"
section lists instruments that are referred to by different names, often
depending on geographic region or physician preference. For exam-
ple, 7¾-inch Gorney scissors are also known as Plastic scissors or
Facelift scissors. In a context where clear communication is para-
mount, this information is a critical aspect for developing excellent
service to OR customers.
Brush up on your instrument history. Throughout the 16 sec-
tions of instrument specialties, Mr. Schultz, the retired CEO of
Spectrum Surgical Instruments, sprinkles historical highlights of surgi-
cal pioneers and inventors who lent their names to the tools of the
surgical trade, including Austrian physician Franz Weitlaner, MD,
(Weitlaner retractor), heart surgeon Michael DeBakey, MD, (DeBakey
forceps) and neurosurgeon Harvey Cushing, MD, (Cushing forceps
and the Cushing ventricular cannula).
More knowledge, better care
Perhaps the most important takeaway from this book is the invaluable
reminder that with more knowledge of our craft comes the ability to
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Infection Prevention
IP
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