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Air Monitoring in Operating Rooms: Results from a Comprehensive Study in the Campania Region

Authors :
Paolo Montuori
Immacolata Russo
Elvira De Rosa
Fabiana Di Duca
Bruna De Simone
Maria Triassi
Source :
Atmosphere, Vol 15, Iss 7, p 859 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Ensuring air quality in operating rooms is crucial for the health and safety of healthcare professionals and patients. This study, focused on 141 operating theatres in the Campania Region from 2015 to 2022, highlights the importance of air monitoring in operating rooms. Microclimatic parameters, air exchanges, thermal comfort indices, air pressure differences, and anesthetic gas concentrations were measured using standardized procedures. Results indicate that 19% of microclimatic checks exceeded acceptable limits, with significant non-compliance in air velocity (0.01–0.04 m/s, mean 0.03 m/s) and air changes (1–14 h−1, mean 6 h−1). Additionally, levels of anesthetic gases such as nitrous oxide (54.7–197.31 ppm, mean 142.92 ppm) and sevoflurane (2.05–19.45 ppm, mean 5.90 ppm) frequently exceeded recommended exposure limits, raising health concerns. These findings underscore the importance of rigorously adhering to environmental standards and continuously monitoring for optimal conditions in operating rooms. The study also stresses the necessity of ongoing education and training for healthcare personnel on preventive measures to reduce risks. In conclusion, maintaining optimal environmental conditions not only safeguards the comfort and safety of healthcare professionals and patients, but also improves team productivity and clinical outcomes. The study advocates for regularly updating national guidelines and rigorously enforcing safety protocols in healthcare facilities.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
15070859 and 20734433
Volume :
15
Issue :
7
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Atmosphere
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.2360440efd514be6b2664337be213006
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15070859