OPERATING ROOM TEXTILES AND STERILE PACKS
During invasive medical procedures protection must be provided for the patient, the physicians, and the staff to prevent any transfer of potential infection or disease. For this reason all textiles, including drapes, wraps, towels, sponges, and gowns used in the operating room must be sterile and totally free of all bacteria and potential infection. COMTEX is one of the only laundry and textile service providers in the country to take extra measures in its disinfection process to ensure quality assurance is up to par with each hospitals’ standards.
COMTEX STERILIZATION PROCESS
During a 45-60 minute cycle in a steam sterilizer that generates pressures of 29 psi, textiles reach temperature of approximately 274 degrees Fahrenheit. This process ensures that sterilization occurs. Packs are then transferred to a sealed cooling down room that is maintained bacteria free. Cleanliness is maintained by a strict disinfection routine, by positive air pressure and the filtering of air through multiple air changes per hour. Access is controlled in this area and all staff is required to wear protective equipment before entering the room.
BENEFITS OF THE O.R. STERILE PACK SYSTEM
COMTEX calculates savings on a cost per use basis with an O.R. reusable textiles program as compared to using disposable products. Some of the key reasons for reduced costs include the following:
- The per-use cost of reusable products is less than disposable products.
- The most appropriate level of protection (I – IV) can be used for each operation.
- Most comfortable and breathable products can be worn by physicians and staff.
- Infectious waste is greatly reduced, thereby reducing the cost of waste removal.
- Packs can be standardized to minimize waste and O.R. staff set-up time.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANTAGES OF REUSABLE LINENS
A list of articles describing the environmental advantages of utilizing a Reusable O.R. Sterile Pack System: