Proposed Recommended Practices for Skin Care Preparation
The Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) has developed and published a guideline for achieving skin preparation of the surgical site. The policies and procedures, according to AORN, are intended to be achievable recommendations representing what is believed to be an optimal level of practice. The recommended practices include: assess the patient's surgical site; remove hair according to the physicians' orders or policies and procedures in the practice setting; clean the surgical site and surrounding areas; and when indicated, the surgical site and surrounding area should be prepared with antiseptic cream. For the complete list as well as more detailed information visit www.aorn.org.
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.
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.
