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Exposure characteristics and cutaneous problems in operating room staff
D L Holness1, S M Tarlo, G Sussman
1Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
Contact Dermatitis
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Operating room staff frequently experience skin issues due to irritants. Education on skin hazards and preventive measures is crucial for healthcare workers to reduce occupational skin problems.
Area of Science:
- Occupational dermatology
- Healthcare worker health
Background:
- Healthcare personnel face significant exposure to skin irritants and allergens.
- High prevalence of cutaneous problems is noted among these workers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize exposures in operating room personnel.
- To determine the prevalence of skin symptoms and findings.
- To examine the relationship between exposure and skin outcomes.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory study utilizing questionnaires and standardized hand examinations.
- 184 operating room staff (90% participation rate) were assessed.
Main Results:
- 26% of personnel reported current skin problems.
- Hand examinations showed 9% with eczema and 10% with moderate dryness.
- Preventive practices varied among staff, with some using strategies like changing gloves or soaps.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous problems are common in operating room environments.
- Varied use of preventive strategies suggests a need for targeted interventions.
- Enhanced education on skin hazards and prevention is recommended for operating room personnel.