Joint Commission: Quick Safety on noises, distractions in ORs

Editor's Note

The Joint Commission on August 16 announced a new Quick Safety that focuses on noise and distractions in the OR and how they can make it difficult to hear and discern information or communicate effectively.

ORs are prone to high levels of noise, which can be distracting and increase risk for errors and unsafe conditions for patients, the Joint Commission says.

Among actions that can be taken to address noise levels are:

• creating a “no-interruption zone” during critical phases of a procedure
• educating staff on noise, its impact on patient safety, and noise reduction strategies
• establishing a policy and code of conduct to minimize noise and distractions.

Joint Commission Online Weekly Newsletter