Introduction:
The field of healthcare is not exempt from the ever-increasing focus that is currently being placed on the problem of environmental sustainability. Disposable surgical gowns and drapes are part of the solid waste produced by the perioperative services sector, which has a major negative impact on the environment (Yap et al., 2023). It has come to light that reusable surgical gowns and drapes are a promising solution that might reduce waste and enhance sustainability. Despite being widely accepted, reusable textiles are still a topic of discussion in the healthcare sector. Using findings from prior research on end-user perceptions and the functional capabilities of disposable gowns, this article investigates whether reusable surgical gowns and drapes should be used more widely (Kilinc-Balci, 2023).
End-User Perceptions: The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) undertook a mixed-methods study to find out what the perioperative staff thought about reusable surgical gowns. The results demonstrated the variety of responses from the participants. Despite the fact that 77.6% of those polled believed that wearing reusable gowns was better for the environment, a large fraction (34.1%) expressed doubt or believed that doing so may increase the number of surgical site infections. 25.4% of people had no preference, while 39.8% preferred both disposable and reusable gowns. Concerns concerning usability, safety, user comfort, environmental impact, and cost prevent end-user buy-in. It has become extremely difficult to use water for laundry, especially in drought-prone areas. The study underlines the requirement for staff training and context-specific environmental effect assessments in order to refute these viewpoints.
Physical Performance Evaluation: The physical performance of a number of disposable isolation robes was assessed in a different investigation. Evaluations of the experiment’s thickness, weight, tensile strength, ripping strength, and seam strength were performed. The findings showed that significant variations in fiber types and manufacturing processes were responsible for significant disparities in the physical performance of gowns. It’s crucial to note that there was no obvious link between the gowns’ level of protection and their rip or seam strength. The tensile strength and protection levels of the gowns, however, were shown to be linearly correlated. The results of this study helped shape the creation of a new standard, ASTM F3352, which is meant to make it easier for end-users to choose the best protective apparel.
Environmental Impact of Disposable Surgical Gowns and Drapes
According to Quintana-Gallardo et al. (2023) and Vozzola et al. (2020), the disposable surgical gown and drape business has major negative effects on the environment, including waste creation and contamination from single-use items. These goods add to the expanding issue of waste buildup and resource depletion. But as a sustainable option, there is an increasing awareness of the need to switch to reusable alternatives. Reusable surgical robes and drapes provide several advantages, such as lowering waste production, reducing the need for raw materials, and lowering carbon emissions (Vozzola et al., 2020). It is essential to think about the environmental effects, financial viability, and usability of adopting reusable solutions in order to support this shift. The adoption of appropriate cleaning methods and cooperation between healthcare institutions and manufacturers are essential for successful implementation. By reducing waste output and fostering resource conservation, healthcare institutions may help create a more sustainable healthcare system by implementing reusable surgical gowns and drapes.
IAdvantages of Reusable Surgical Gowns and Drapes
Reusable surgical gowns and drapes offer cost-effectiveness, durability, performance, decreased waste and landfill usage, improved infection control, and healthcare worker safety.
Cost-effectiveness:Reusable surgical gowns and drapes can save money over time. The initial investment may be costlier, but these goods may be reused, minimizing the requirement for regular replacements and procurement expenditures (Quintana-Gallardo et al., 2023).
Durability and performance: Reusable gowns and drapes can tolerate numerous washes and sterilization cycles without losing performance. They are made of durable, high-quality materials (Vozzola et al., 2020).
Reduced waste generation and landfill use:Reusable surgical gowns and drapes decrease waste and landfill use in hospitals. This reduces plastic waste and natural resource usage from single-use items (Quintana-Gallardo et al., 2023).
Enhanced infection control:Antimicrobial textiles prevent disease development and transmission, making surgical environments safer (Vozzola et al., 2020).
Increased safety for healthcare professionals:Reusable gowns and drapes safeguard healthcare staff. Their sturdy structure and improved fabric qualities reduce exposure to dangerous chemicals and avoid cross-contamination, protecting patients and healthcare staff (Quintana-Gallardo et al., 2023).
Addressing Concerns and Challenges
Reusable surgical gowns and drapes have not been widely adopted in healthcare settings without certain concerns and difficulties. On the basis of the information at hand, this section will analyze some of these issues and provide potential remedies.
The possibility of surgery site infections (SSIs) brought on by the use of reusable gowns is a major worry. Some medical professionals voiced skepticism about the effect of reusable gowns on infection prevention, according to Yap et al.’s mixed-methods research from 2023. It is critical to teach and educate healthcare personnel about the correct sterilization and maintenance procedures related to reusable gowns in order to solve this issue.
Another obstacle to the widespread use of reusable gowns is cost analysis and initial expenditure. Assessing the cost effects of switching from disposable to reusable gowns is necessary for healthcare institutions. Reusable clothing and draperies may result in cost savings through less trash output and landfill use, according to Wedmore (2023). The initial investment barrier can be addressed by putting into practice cost-effective methods like effective laundering procedures and collaborative procurement efforts.
Reusable gowns must be sterilized and maintained according to strict guidelines to be safe and effective. In order to stop the spread of illnesses linked to healthcare, Baykasoglu et al. (2009) stress the need to use the proper sterilizing methods. It is possible to reduce the environmental impact while preserving the quality of reusable gowns by developing standardized methods for sterilization and maintenance, as well as sustainable and effective laundry techniques.
The adoption of reusable surgical gowns and drapes is greatly aided by education and training. About the advantages and appropriate application of reusable textiles healthcare professionals need to be informed. In order to address concerns about water use for laundry in drought-prone locations, Yap et al. (2023) underline the necessity for staff training and context-specific environmental effect evaluations. Resistance can be overcome, and acceptability among healthcare workers can be increased by ongoing education and reinforcement of effective practices.
The adoption of reusable surgical gowns and drapes depends on cooperation between producers, healthcare facilities, and regulatory organizations. The necessity of industrial cooperation is emphasized by Beatty et al. (2022) in order to develop sustainable healthcare practices. The creation of inventive and useful reusable gown designs that cater to the particular requirements and preferences of healthcare workers should be promoted by manufacturers. The development of policies and requirements for the manufacture, sterilization, and quality control of reusable textiles can be greatly aided by regulatory authorities.
Successful Case Studies and Implementations
Case Studies:
Many hospitals now employ reusable surgical robes and drapes. These case studies demonstrate the advantages of reusable fabrics. Kieser et al. (2018) implemented reusable gowns in orthopedics. The report emphasizes:
A big orthopedic unit in a hospital used reusable surgical gowns as part of its sustainability drive. High-quality, durable fabrics met infection control criteria for the reusable robes. Reusable gowns provide several benefits.
Reusable gowns were cheaper than disposable ones. Reusable gowns saved money over time, the study showed. The hospital spent less on gowns, garbage, and disposal. This cost-effectiveness lets the orthopedic unit survive financially.
Reusable gowns also decreased landfill waste. The hospital reduced environmental effects by extending the gown lifespan with a well-structured laundry procedure. This supports sustainable healthcare and shows the benefits of reusable textiles. Infection control was comparable for disposable and reusable gowns. Reusable gowns caused no surgery site infections. This suggests that properly sanitized reusable gowns can reduce infection risk and ensure patient safety.
Implementations:
According to (Cowperthwaite & Holm, 2015), the updated “Guideline for surgical attire.”
Perioperative staff should wear antibacterial scrubs. This fabric reduces microbial transfer and improves perioperative infection management.
In the limited surgery suite, perioperative staff should cover their arms. This inhibits bacteria and pollution.
When wearing scrubs, staff should remove or limit jewelry. Microorganisms in jewelry might hinder hand hygiene. Following this recommendation reduces germ transmission.
Disinfect personal items: Bring jewelry, bags, and cell phones into the perioperative suite. This reduces microbe transmission and keeps the environment clean.
Send used clothing to a healthcare-accredited laundry facility for washing and sterilization. This keeps clothing clean for future usage.
These procedures can help perioperative staff members greatly safeguard patients from germs and uphold a high level of infection control in the perioperative environment.
Overcoming Barriers to Adoption
Several ways can overcome limitations to reusable surgical gowns and drapes. These include educating healthcare providers and administrators, encouraging collaboration between manufacturers, hospitals, and regulatory bodies, providing financial incentives and government support, and conducting extensive research and studies on the long-term benefits of reusable alternatives.
Educating healthcare professionals and administrators:
Reusable surgical gowns and drapes provide environmental and cost benefits. Training programs, seminars, and instructional campaigns may demonstrate the environmental effect of throwaway items and the economic savings of reusable ones. (Quintana-Gallardo, 2023).
Collaboration:
Manufacturers, hospitals, and regulatory agencies should work together to create industry standards, best practices, and high-quality reusable surgical gowns and drapes. Together, they may address problems, exchange expertise, and set rules for reusable textile usage, sterilization, and maintenance (Vozzola et al., 2020).
Financial incentives and government support:
Tax breaks or subsidies might encourage healthcare organizations to buy reusable surgical gowns and drapes. Government laws and legislation that encourage sustainable healthcare practices can boost adoption (Quintana-Gallardo et al., 2023).
Comprehensive study:
Long-term research on reusable surgical gowns and drapes can prove their efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact. This study can help healthcare practitioners make educated decisions, shape policies, and inform decision-making (Vozzola et al., 2020).
These methods can overcome hurdles to reusable surgical gowns and drapes. Awareness, teamwork, financial incentives, and thorough study may help the healthcare business adopt sustainable options.
Conclusion
Finally, the healthcare business benefits from reusable surgical gowns and drapes. Reusable solutions are durable and cost-effective, saving healthcare institutions money over time. Reusable textiles minimize landfill waste and contribute to environmental sustainability. Increased infection control and healthcare professional safety support greater adoption. Healthcare practitioners and managers must be educated to overcome implementation obstacles. Industry standards and best practices need collaboration between manufacturers, hospitals, and regulatory organizations. Healthcare institutions can invest in reusable alternatives with financial and government help. Researching the long-term advantages of reusable surgical gowns and drapes might influence decision-making. The healthcare business may overcome problems and adopt reusable solutions by addressing issues, educating, and cooperating. Healthcare professionals, manufacturers, regulators, and legislators must collaborate to deploy reusable surgical gowns and drapes. Reusable surgical gowns and drapes provide patient safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental stewardship.
References:
Yap, A., Wang, K., Chen, E., Melhado, C., Ahmad, T., O’Sullivan, P., & Gandhi, S. (2023). A mixed-methods study on end-user perceptions of transitioning to reusable surgical gowns. Surgery Open Science, pp. 11, 33–39.
Baykasoglu, A., Dereli, T., & Yilankirkan, N. (2009). Sterilization of gowns: Making the most of a scarce commodity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Health Action, 11, 112-113.
Beatty, J. W., Gan, J., Robb, H., Dryden, S., Ortega, P., & Purkayastha, S. (2022). Back to the future: Re-introducing reusable gowns to achieve NetZeroSurgery. British Journal of Surgery, 109(v4).
Wedmore, F. (2023). Reusable gowns and drapes in surgery could reduce carbon footprint, analysis shows. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), pp. 381, 853.
Kieser, D. C., Wyatt, M. C., Beswick, A., Kunutsor, S., & Hooper, G. J. (2018). Reusable surgical gowns in an orthopedic operating theatre: a cost-effectiveness study. Journal of Orthopaedics, pp. 15, 566–570.
Cowperthwaite, L., & Holm, R. L. (2015). Implementing the AORN guideline for surgical attire: Key points for perioperative personnel. AORN Journal, 101(2), 188–197.
Vozzola, E., Overcash, M., & Griffing, E. (2020).An Environmental Analysis of Reusable and Disposable Surgical Gowns. AORN Journal, 111, 315-325.
Quintana-Gallardo, A., Del Rey, R., Gonzalez-Conca, S., & Guillen-Guillamon, I. (2023). Polymers, 15.
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