Uswa Khursheed
(Student of Allied Health Sciences, University of Haripur).
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Operating theatre (OT)-acquired diseases remain a major concern in surgical healthcare, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Allied Health Sciences (AHS) professionals, especially Anesthesia Technologists, play a key role in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in operating rooms.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HAIs affect around 15% of hospitalized patients in low- and middle-income countries, with surgical site infections (SSIs) making up a significant portion. In Pakistan, SSI rates in public hospitals are reported to range between 8–12%, often due to poor sterilization practices and lapses in aseptic technique.
AHS Anesthesia Technologists are responsible for the preparation, maintenance, and decontamination of anesthesia equipment, which can become a source of infection if not properly handled. This includes sterilizing laryngoscope blades, endotracheal tubes, and breathing circuits. Studies have identified contamination in anesthesia workstations, with pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MRSA posing risks of cross-infection.
Research published in the Journal of Hospital Infection (2019) found that 23% of anesthesia workstations were contaminated before terminal cleaning, highlighting the importance of strict infection control measures.
Experts emphasize that AHS professionals are essential in maintaining OT hygiene and patient safety through proper sterilization protocols and adherence to infection control standards. Strengthening their training is considered vital for reducing OT-acquired diseases and improving surgical outcomes.