Paper in Instrument Trays

[Colette Garton]

We have been using the paper/plastic packs to hold small items together in the large warpped instrument trays. We have been alerted that this should not be done. What practice do you use? Since we are talking paper in wrapped instrumnt trays, what about count sheets. We use Sterion pans and some of the instruement trays are open trays. What practice do you follow?
Colette

[jrc]

There are self-sealing paper bags designed for use inside trays. Check with your peel pouch vendor to see if they have something available.

Count sheets in trays is a hot-button issue for some people. AORN has come out against it in their recommended practices, but there is no evidence saying it is either safe or harmful. I believe the very real benefit of having the document that the sterile processing technician signed stating what is in the set outweighs any "potential harm" from the paper and/or ink releasing any toxins.

[rlk1125]

We use tray liners and "burrito" wrap the loose instruments leaving one end open so the OR can see the handles. Seems to work well.

[Colette Garton]

From what material are the tray liners made?

[rlk1125]

Off hand I am not sure, I will research that. They are absorbent tray liners that I order through Healthmark and seem to do a great job with reducing our moisture.

[kshearman]

We use Kimberly Clark Tray liners and have not had any problems.