New Meriter OR features leading-edge technology

Meriter will open a new surgical wing mid-July that features leading-edge technology and integrated information technology systems. The eight new state-of-the-art surgical rooms cost $12.5 million, and add over 16,000 square feet to the department. Customized ceiling booms, and integrated information and communication systems contribute to the room’s performance and operational efficiency. This is the first phase of a complete redesign of Meriter’s surgical department. 

“These new operating rooms provide the most advanced surgical care, comfort and safety measures for our patients together with the latest technology for our physicians and staff,” says Helen Berch-Kenny, Meriter Director of Surgical Services.

Moveable ceiling booms hold equipment that would normally be placed on the floor which reduces clutter in the rooms.  The ceiling booms also contain electric power, medical gases and information cabling to create an integrated suite.

Operating like a high tech command center, Meriter’s operating rooms are equipped with digital imaging equipment and three flat-screen monitors suspended from the ceiling and one 42-inch monitor hung on the wall. Through a high-technology switching station, nurses access real-time images from endoscopic cameras, as well as stored digital images of x-rays, MRI and CT scans and can send the images to the screens located around the surgical table to meet the precise needs of the patient and surgeon. 

The new wing has a sterile core providing a central storage environment keeping supplies and equipment within easy reach of staff. Patients are moved to and from the operating rooms through a separate corridor, lined with windows providing natural light and free from medical equipment.

Other features include:

·         Soft, natural lighting and warm colors to provide a healing environment

·         Spotlights made up of individual “cool” LED lights that don’t produce heat allowing the room to stay at a more comfortable temperature for patients

·         Scrub sinks with timers

·         OR room windows with blinds built-in which open to allow surgeons to monitor case preparation or close for patient privacy

·         Twenty-six additional outlets on separate circuits to accommodate technology needs

·         Built-in sound systems with MP3 players

·         Video technology that can transmit surgical cases to be used for teaching purposes.

·         Touchless, motion-sensor doors

The entire operating team was involved in the new design. “Everyone from the surgeons and anesthesiologists, to nurses, technicians, support personnel, engineers and the environmental services staff contributed their vision and expertise to create this truly patient-centered environment,” says Berch-Kenny.

Phase II, which involves renovation of the existing operating rooms, will begin immediately. When the entire project is completed in 2012, the Meriter OR will be expanded from 14 to 18 operating suites, and include new pre-surgery and post-operative private rooms for patients.

6/24/2009