SGPGI Lucknow Enhances Surgical Safety with Specialized OT Staff Training Programme
In a significant move to bolster patient safety and reduce hospital-acquired infections during surgical procedures, the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow organized a specialized training programme for operating theatre (OT) staff at its apex trauma centre on Saturday. This initiative aims to address critical gaps in surgical protocols that medical experts warn can severely compromise patient outcomes.
Medical Experts Highlight Alarming Risks from OT Protocol Lapses
Medical professionals have issued stark warnings about the consequences of even minor deviations from established OT protocols. According to experts, such lapses can increase the risk of post-surgical infections by a substantial 30-40%. Furthermore, improper handling of surgical instruments may lead to complications in approximately one out of every four patients, underscoring the need for meticulous attention to detail in the operating theatre.
In emergency scenarios, the absence of adequately trained OT personnel can be particularly detrimental. Experts note that this can slow response times by up to 50%, significantly affecting patient recovery and survival rates. These statistics highlight the urgent necessity for continuous training and skill enhancement among OT staff to ensure optimal surgical environments.
Comprehensive Training Focuses on Surgical Safety and Efficiency
The training programme, meticulously organized by the orthopaedics department of the apex trauma centre, was designed with a multi-faceted approach. It concentrated on strengthening surgical safety measures, improving overall OT efficiency, and fostering better coordination among surgical teams. By addressing these core areas, SGPGI aims to create a more robust and reliable surgical ecosystem that prioritizes patient well-being.
Dr. Pulak Sharma, the head of the orthopaedics department who led the programme, emphasized that surgical success is a collective effort. He stated, "Surgical success depends not only on the skill of the surgeon but also on the competence of OT personnel. OT staff are the silent guardians of surgery. Ensuring a sterile environment, timely availability of instruments, and patient safety are their core responsibilities." This perspective reinforces the critical role that OT staff play in the surgical process, often behind the scenes.
Additional Risks from Incorrect Patient Positioning Highlighted
During the training, experts also shed light on another often-overlooked aspect of surgical care: patient positioning. They highlighted that incorrect positioning during procedures can elevate the risk of nerve injuries, pressure sores, and prolonged pain by 15-20%. This insight underscores the importance of comprehensive training that covers all facets of patient handling and care in the OT, beyond just infection control.
The programme at SGPGI Lucknow represents a proactive step towards mitigating these risks. By equipping OT staff with updated knowledge and practical skills, the institute aims to reduce infection rates, enhance surgical outcomes, and improve overall patient satisfaction. Such initiatives are crucial in today's healthcare landscape, where patient safety and quality care are paramount.
As healthcare institutions globally grapple with the challenges of hospital-borne infections, SGPGI's focused training serves as a model for others to follow. It demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement and adherence to best practices in surgical settings, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for patients in Lucknow and beyond.
