How to Optimize Efficiency with Closed Case Carts

From sterile processing to the operating room and back, case carts are the cornerstones of every surgical procedure. As the courier for surgical instruments both pre and post-surgery, case carts have a busy day. Starting in the sterile processing department (SPD), the cart is prepped and loaded for a surgical case then is transferred to the operating room (OR). Once there, the carts are unloaded with sterile instruments, and after the procedure, they are reloaded with unsterile instruments. The carts are then returned to sterile processing for sterilization, either through handwashing or cart washing, before the cycle begins again.   

A successful day is greatly impacted by the efficiency and dependability of your case cart. In this blog, we will discuss how to streamline your processes and optimize efficiencies with Pedigo’s closed surgical case cart.

Key strategies for leveraging efficiency with a closed case cart

As a trusted case cart manufacturer in the United States, our Team is well versed on key strategies for leveraging efficiency with your closed case carts. 

Standardization of Cart Sizes and Configurations

A key strategy for optimizing efficiency when it comes to your case carts is standardizing your cart sizes and configurations. Standardization can help your staff become familiarized with the carts quicker and more efficient when preparing for surgical cases. This also eliminates time spent adjusting cleaning settings or reconfiguring cassettes to accommodate oversized cases. Overall, standardization minimizes variability and improves workflow—leading to a more efficient and effective operation.

Labeling 

The ability to quickly comprehend the status of your cart is not only a standard enforced by the Joint Commission, but it also is integral to optimizing efficiency. Labeling options for all of our Pedigo Closed Case Carts includes:

• Security paddle latch
• CartSTAT
• Card holders 

Labeling case carts is essential to productive workflow considering the day in the life of a case cart. Pedigo’s security paddle latch and CartSTAT help improve sterile compliance and efficiency by providing a visual indication of the cart status. Visible from a wide array of angles and variable distances, our CartSTAT wheel easily communicates the status of loaded instruments within the cart and indicates which case that the cart is prepared for. By using card holders, the sterile processing department (SPD) can quickly communicate which case and instruments are loaded in the cart, saving staff time and eliminating the need to guess the cart’s contents. 

Sterile Processing 

Choosing the right cart for your SPD’s workflow is key to boosting efficiency but it can feel like a daunting task. Factors such as whether your facility handwashes or uses a cart wash play a significant role in making the best choice. That’s why our trained sales team is here to help you arrive at a decision. For instance, if your facility handwashes carts, we might recommend solid shelving instead of wire shelving. Solid shelving simplifies cleaning, saving your staff time and effort by eliminating the need to scrub the intricate details of wire racks. Whatever your facility needs, Pedigo has a cart designed to optimize your processes and support your team. 

Your Trusted Partner for Surgical Case Carts

You can save time and money when you apply these key strategies to optimizing your efficiency with your closed case carts:

• Standardize your case carts to create familiarity for your staff, reducing time spent loading carts for surgeries.
• Use labeling accessories on carts to quickly communicate the cart’s status and contents, ensuring staff can easily identify its purpose.
• Select a cart designed for efficiency by considering its compatibility with cart wash practices to save valuable time in sterile processing.

Your closed case carts are the integral piece between your SPD and OR. Optimizing this process can save your staff time, improve workflow, and ensure a smoother transition from preparation to surgery. By implementing these strategies, you not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to better patient care, reduced operational costs, and a more streamlined surgical environment.

We understand that each hospital has unique needs when it comes to case carts, which is why we created Pedigo’s Guide to Case Carts. For more detailed information on selecting the right cart for your healthcare facility and staff, contact your local Pedigo Sales Rep!