A guide for accommodating wheelchairs in the OR while maintaining safety and quality

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Surgical Education
• Accessibility in Healthcare

Background:

• Accommodating residents with disabilities in surgical training presents unique challenges.
• Ensuring a safe and functional operating room (OR) environment for all personnel, including those with mobility impairments, is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an evidence-based protocol for wheelchair use in the operating room.
• To facilitate the completion of surgical residency for a paraplegic resident.
• To ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) within the OR.

Main Methods:

• Reviewed current evidence-based guidelines for OR protocols.
• Examined provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Integrated OR guidelines with ADA requirements, considering the wheelchair as an extension of the user.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive protocol for wheelchair use in the OR was successfully drafted.
• The protocol addresses equipment use, personal protective equipment, and sterile procedures.
• The developed protocol ensures a safe operating environment for the resident, staff, and patient.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based recommendations and ADA provisions can be effectively combined.
• A safe and functional protocol for wheelchair-bound surgeons in the OR is achievable.
• This approach supports inclusivity in surgical residency programs.