This category outlines the systematic approach to selecting, evaluating, and managing medical products and devices within a healthcare setting.
Product and Medical Device Selection
Product and Medical Device Selection Process
- Standardization and Evaluation: A system for product and medical device standardization and evaluation should be in place.
- Goal: To select functional and reliable products that are safe, cost-effective, and environmentally conscious.
- Efficiency: Avoid duplication (e.g., consolidating instrument trays) and fads (trial new items based on need, not just novelty).
- Evaluation Criteria: Product evaluation must use criteria specific to the item’s use and need. It cannot be a generic tool.
- Factors: Safety, ease of use, compatibility with other products, cost, and sterilization method.
- Clinical Evaluation: Conduct a clinical evaluation based on an identified need or opportunity.
- Efficiency: Do not waste time trialing products that are not viable options.
- Collaboration: All departments and stakeholders should participate, receive education, and undergo inservice training before a trial.
- Parameters: Trials must have defined time and scope parameters.
- Personnel for ESU and Accessories: Personnel involved in selecting Electrosurgical Units (ESU) and their accessories are crucial.
- Safety Focus: ESUs are a common source of patient problems. The primary goal is to minimize patient risk by prioritizing safety features.