Wrapping Techniques

[pnothum]

When wrapping trays in a wrapper, one of the facilities represented in our local chapter uses a towel and foam corner guards between the wrap and the tray to prevent tearing. What is the groups thoughts on this process?

Thanks,

[citylmt7]

We currently use the foam corners on all of our ortho it has made a HUGE difference with no holes in the wraps.

[Dan B]

This is not really a reply, I couldn't figure out how to start a new thread under the current one.
The manager of Sterile Processing where I work has been showing the new hires how to wrap. Synthes pans, light handles, etc. Instead of tucking the last fold in, he brings it around to the bottom and tapes it. I'm taking a course
through Purdue to get certified. He is not certfied, He's an RN with about 15 years expierence. I don't feel his technique is correct but I am unable to find any data that says it is. All my certified co-workers agree that there are issues with a flap on the bottom. All my research, Steris, Aami, Iahcsmm, etc
show a tuck under the top folds. Any opinions?
Thank you.
dan B.

[David Freeman]

From an OR perspective, tucking the final fold on top allows easy access and opening when the tray is sitting on a ring stand, back table or Mayo stand. By wrapping the final fold around the tray, sometimes this ends up with the taped end underneath the tray. If the tray is heavy, it would be difficult to not only lift the tray to break the seal but it would also make examining the wrapper for tears difficult. For small, light items like light handles or towel packs, wrapping the final fold all the way round makes a neater package without the bulge of the tuck, it is more secure, requires less tape to hold it and is easy to unwrap. Just my experience.

[sheper1]

Both the AAMI and the CS technician manuals show wrapping techniques. The CS technician manual states to Bring the top corner down over the item and tuck the corner under the right and left folds leaving a small tab visible for easy opening.