Authors: Becky J. Wong, M.D., M.S., Aussama K. Nassar, M.D., M.Sc., F.A.C.S., F.R.C.S.C., and Sara N. Goldhaber-Fiebert, M.D.
Published in: Anesthesiology, June 2022
Key Points:
- Improved Communication: Labeled surgical caps help identify team members' names and roles in the operating room, overcoming challenges posed by small name badges and personal protective equipment.
- Enhancement of Teamwork and Patient Safety: Role clarity and the ability to address individuals by name foster better communication, teamwork, and patient safety, contributing to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Institutional Implementation: Team members received multiple labeled caps for cleanliness and hygiene, with different professional groups choosing preferred notations.
- Infection Risk Concerns Addressed: Multiple organizations, including the American Society of Anesthesiologists and The Joint Commission, found no association between surgical cap type and surgical site infection risk.
- Cultural Shift and Benefits: Institutional support for labeled caps signifies a cultural shift towards better communication, improving role clarity, provider well-being, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, without increasing infection risk.
Summary: The article advocates the use of labeled surgical caps as a cost-effective tool to enhance communication, role clarity, and safety in the perioperative environment, also addressing diversity and infection control concerns.
