Operating Table Cleaning Between Cases: A Step Guide

Principles of operating room table disinfection

Cleaning removes visible soil, blood and body fluids, and disinfection reduces microorganisms on the cleaned surface. Disinfection cannot work properly on a dirty surface, so clean first. Use a hospital-approved disinfectant at the correct concentration and contact time, and check that it is compatible with the table's surfaces, mattress covers and accessories.

Your infection prevention team defines the policy. The manufacturer's cleaning instructions define which products and methods are safe for the table. Where they differ, discuss it with both before changing the routine.

Step-by-step cleaning of the table between cases

A typical routine looks like this:

• Remove drapes, linen and disposable covers; dispose of waste according to policy
• Wearing appropriate PPE, remove visible soil from the top, rails, column, base and controls
• Wipe all surfaces with a disinfectant wipe or cloth, working from clean to dirty and top to bottom
• Include side rails, clamps, hand control, cable and the underside of the mattress
• Allow the required contact time and let surfaces dry
• Inspect the mattress and covers for damage, and replace the cover if it is torn or cracked

Table, pads and accessories: what to watch

Mattress and pad covers must be wiped on all sides, including the underside where fluids can collect. Do not use abrasive pads, which scratch surfaces and create places for soil to hide. Avoid soaking electric parts, and keep fluids away from connectors and the hand control. Remove and clean accessories such as arm boards and leg holders, and inspect clamps and rails. Our article on operating table pads and mattresses explains materials in more depth.

Hydraulic and electric components should not be sprayed directly; use cloths moistened with the disinfectant. Do not use unapproved chlorine or solvent products that can damage seals, paint or plastics.

Design features that make cleaning easier

The table design matters. Scandia Prime has a frame built to be easy to clean and to avoid fluid retention, with a seamless one-piece base cover. Grand Promerix has redesigned bellows and seat section that make cleaning easier, and a base cover that is also available in stainless steel. Practico Manual has a stainless steel table top suitable for demanding climates. These details reduce the time spent between cases.

When you compare products, ask for the cleaning and disinfection instructions and the list of approved agents. See the Scandia Prime and Grand Promerix pages.

Common mistakes in table disinfection

Even good products fail if they are applied incorrectly. Watch for these mistakes.

A visual checklist on the wall of the theatre, with the sequence and the approved products, helps new staff and agency personnel to follow the same method. Assign responsibility clearly between nursing staff and cleaning staff, and review turnover times regularly. If a surface cannot be cleaned reliably because it is cracked or worn, replace the part rather than accept a compromise on infection control. Make sure that gloves, cloths and containers for cleaning are stocked inside the theatre, so that nobody leaves the room during turnover.

• Wiping with a dry cloth and not allowing the contact time
• Spreading dirt from dirty to clean areas
• Spraying fluid on connectors and hand controls
• Neglecting the underside of the mattress and the rails

Terminal cleaning, records and training

At the end of the list, perform a more thorough clean, including the underside of the base, castors, floor around the table and storage areas for accessories. Keep a record, train new staff and audit performance. Combine cleaning with an inspection routine described in our maintenance guide. Beckfinity can provide guidance on the cleaning of the tables it supplies; request a consultation.