Is the Joint Commission phasing out surgical tape on instruments? Why is it acceptable to use it on surgical instruments that come into direct contact with sterile tissue but not in clinical areas or in the operating room?
Surgical Tape on Instruments
The Joint Commission’s concerns with surgical tape on instruments is not to prevent its use, but instead to insure:
- The tape is applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions for use (IFU)
- Maintained in good condition per the IFU
For example, cracked, peeling or poorly applied tape is an infection hazard. In addition, there are alternatives to tape, including using laser imprinting on the instrument, using plastic color tags for instrument trays and more.
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