OR Manager Reports Decrease in Use of Cover Gowns, Shoe Covers
According to an OR Manager survey only 25% of managers require cover gowns, compared with 40% in 1998 and 79% in 1994. Shoe covers have been made optional by 86% of managers, up from 44% in 1994.
Other facts reported in the survey include a growing trend of moving away from expiration dating for sterile packages - 87% reported that they now use an event-related approach. 93% of respondents also reported that they still use scrub suits laundered in their facility. Nearly 50% of surgeons' still use razors for preoperative hair removal, despite a large body of research showing that preoperative shaving is unnecessary and may be harmful.
For more information visit www.ormanager.com.
I Was There: An Infection Preventionist on the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 30th 2025Deep feelings run strong about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some beautiful art has come out of those emotions. Infection Control Today is proud to share this poem by Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC, in response to a recent article by Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.
