Implementation module: Moving (Back) to Reusables in the OR

Description

When considering how to reduce the environmental footprint of the operating room, it makes sense to first revisit the old adage of Reduce-Reuse-Recycle. This common sense approach relies on the concept of avoiding use of materials or supplies that are not needed to protect or ensure patient or worker safety (reduce), using a reusable, preprocessed or reposable option where a product must be used, and where no reusable option is available ensure the product is recyclable. The most environmentally unfriendly option is a single-use, disposable product that cannot be recycled at the end of use. When undertaking a comparative analysis, surgical services managers need to consider the lifecycle costs of disposable items beyond first cost.1

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