Nickel release from surgical instruments and operating room equipment Journal Article uri icon
Overview
abstract
  • Background There has been no systematic study assessing nickel release from surgical instruments and equipment used within the operating suite. This equipment represents important potential sources of exposure for nickel-sensitive patients and hospital staff. OBJECTIVE: To investigate nickel release from commonly used surgical instruments and operating room equipment. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Using the dimethylglyoxime nickel spot test, a variety of surgical instruments and operating room equipment were tested for nickel release at our institution. RESULTS: Of the 128 surgical instruments tested, only 1 was positive for nickel release. Of the 43 operating room items tested, 19 were positive for nickel release, 7 of which have the potential for direct contact with patients and/or hospital staff. CONCLUSION: Hospital systems should be aware of surgical instruments and operating room equipment as potential sources of nickel exposure.

  • authors
    publication date
  • 2018
  • published in
    Research
    keywords
  • Rhinitis, Allergic
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Diseases
  • Surgery
  • Additional Document Info
    volume
  • 24
  • issue
  • 4