When you think of operating rooms stainless steel is most likely the first thing that comes to mind. In fact, it is hard to imagine an operating room equipped with anything other than stainless steel. And that includes built in banks of covered or enclosed stainless steel cabinets to safely store sterile equipment and supplies.
Stainless steel cabinets are an indispensable component in healthcare environments, particularly in operating rooms. Renowned for its exceptional hygienic properties, stainless steel also offers several other benefits favored by staff working in the surgical environment.
This article will explore the:
- Benefits of Stainless Steel Cabinets in Operating Rooms
- Features to Look for in Stainless Steel Cabinets
- MAC Medical Stainless Steel Operating Room Cabinet Solutions
- Stainless Steel Cabinet FAQs
Benefits of Stainless Steel Cabinets in Operating Rooms
Stainless-steel casework offers a variety of benefits that make it an indispensable component of operating rooms. The unmatched durability and hygienic properties of stainless steel combined with safety, cost effectiveness, sustainability, and regulatory compliance are just a few of the numerous benefits.
Durability and Longevity
One of the primary advantages to using stainless steel in the construction of casework for the operating room is its unparalleled durability and, by extension, service life. Stainless steel stands out for its resistance to corrosion and rust, even in environments subject to frequent cleaning with harsh disinfectants. This durability helps ensure a longer service life and, over the long term, cost savings. In many instances casework found in the operating room is built into the structure of the facility making replacement costly and time consuming.
Hygienic Properties
Preventing healthcare associated infections (HAI) is imperative in healthcare, and never more so than in the operating room. Stainless steel casework excels in this imperative with a non-porous surface that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other pathogens. The smooth, “nook and cranny free” surface facilitates thorough cleaning and disinfection, further reducing the risk of cross contamination in the sterile environment of the operating room.
Safety
Despite being a controlled space, operating rooms can be high-risk spaces where the safety of patients and staff must be considered. In an environment with high concentrations of oxygen, sparks from electrosurgery equipment or other hemostatic devices can cause a rare but serious fire.
The fire and impact resistance of stainless steel make it ideal for operating room casework. Stainless steel remains structurally sound in the event of fire. This integrity can help prevent the spread of flames, minimizing the danger to patients and staff as well as damage to surrounding equipment. Impact resistance helps ensure the casework remains structurally sound despite accidental collision with other medical equipment.
Cost-Effectiveness
While the initial investment may be higher than alternatives, the long-term cost effectiveness of stainless steel cabinets is undeniable. Durability and low maintenance requirements translate to significant savings over time by all but eliminating frequent repairs or replacement. The impact resistant nature of stainless steel minimizes the risk of damage and by extension lessens the risk of downtime and the associated costs.
Sustainability
Sustainability conversations are taking center stage in the healthcare sector as more and more healthcare facilities are implementing broad sustainability initiatives, including purchasing sustainable medical equipment. Because stainless steel is completely recyclable it is emerging as the preferred choice for facilities looking to reduce their carbon foot print.
Regulatory Compliance
The installation of stainless steel casework in operating rooms all but guarantees compliance with rigorous safety and hygiene requirements set by regulatory bodies such as The Joint Commission.
While the benefits of stainless steel casework and cabinets in the surgical environment are undeniable, the question is what features make this medical equipment so beneficial.
Features to Look for in Stainless Steel Cabinets
When choosing stainless steel casework for operating rooms several key features should be considered. By considering these features, healthcare facilities can ensure all the benefits of the case work are fully realized.
Look for:
- Type 300 series stainless steel. This stainless steel is an iron-based, chromium-nickel alloy designed to resist rust and corrosion.
- Seamless construction. Seamless construction and smooth surfaces bolster thorough disinfection and sterilization efforts.
- Fully welded construction. Welded joints offer structural integrity and durability to the unit.
Sourcing quality stainless steel casework from industry recognized manufacturers is as important as the casework features themselves. MAC Medical’s full line of recessed stainless steel operating room cabinets offer healthcare preferred features and custom casework solutions for your operating room needs.
MAC Medical Stainless Steel Operating Room Cabinet Solutions
While banks of recessed, stainless steel equipment and supply cabinets in an operating room are fairly standard across surgical environments, it is a safe bet that the configuration of those cabinets is unique to the needs of the facility.
MAC Medical, Inc. not only manufactures AAMI ST79 compliant stainless steel casework for operating rooms in their Illinois plant, but as a solutions based company MAC can work with architects, planners, designers, and contractors to design banks of cabinets to aid in improving the efficiency of operating room workflows and provide versatile space for equipment and supplies.
Shop CME for MAC Medical recessed, stainless steel casework constructed with 300 series stainless steel.
CHAT with a CME expert about your Group 1 or Division 11 requirements for stainless steel casework planned for new or renovated operating rooms.
We have built relationships with MAC Medical as well as many other industry leading manufacturers and can ensure your stainless steel cabinets are delivered to the construction site when the contractor needs them for installation.
Stainless Steel Cabinet FAQs
What makes stainless steel cabinets suitable for operating rooms?
Stainless steel cabinets are ideal for operating rooms because of their durability, hygienic properties, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Can stainless steel cabinets be customized to healthcare facility needs?
Yes. Stainless steel cabinets can be configured and customized to the specific needs of an operating room.
How do stainless steel cabinets contribute to infection control in the operating room?
Stainless steel’s non-porous surface inhibits the growth of bacteria and other pathogens making it easier to maintain a sterile environment through regular cleaning and disinfection.
Is stainless steel environmentally friendly compared to other materials?
Yes. Stainless steel is highly recyclable and has a lower environmental footprint compared to other materials. It is a sustainable choice for healthcare facilities working to reduce their environmental impact.
About MAC Medical: MAC Medical, Inc. manufactures top quality medical equipment including Warming Cabinets, Sinks, Tables, Casework, Case Carts, IV Stands, Mayo Stands, Linen Hampers, and many other stainless steel products. Founded as a solutions-based company, MAC Medical still maintains that as its core competency. With no project too large or too small, MAC Medical is committed to providing solutions for customer needs with its superior service and American made products.
About CME: CME Corp is the nation’s premier source for healthcare equipment, turnkey logistics, and biomedical services, representing 2 million+ products from more than 2,000 manufacturers. With two corporate offices and 35+ service centers, our mission is to help healthcare facilities nationwide reduce the cost of the equipment they purchase, make their equipment specification, delivery, installation, and maintenance processes more efficient, and help them seamlessly launch, renovate and expand on schedule.
