The Benefits of Switching to Single-Use Medical Devices
Single-use medical devices are those that are used one time, by one patient, during one procedure. After a single-use medical device has been used, it is disposed. There are many benefits to using disposable medical devices in place of their reusable alternatives. An OBP Medical article titled Top Reasons to Switch to Single-Use Medical Devices explains the many benefits of switching to disposable medical devices.
Safety. Arguably, the most significant benefit to using single-use medical devices is that disposing of the device immediately after use improves patient safety. Single-use medical devices reduce the risk of surgical site infections and cross-contamination. If only one person is using the device, and the device is used correctly, the possibility of spreading germs and diseases among patients and medical personnel is virtually eliminated. According to the CDC, disposable items improve patient safety by eliminating the risk of patient-to-patient contamination because the item is discarded, and therefore not used on another patient. With increased attention being paid to infection control, single-use medical devices can provide peace of mind, improve patient safety and can greatly reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Time. In order to ensure that reusable medical devices are safe to use with other patients, they must be cleaned after every use. Taking the time to clean reusable devices means less time spent with patients. Most single-use medical devices are ready to use upon opening, saving medical professionals a significant amount of time. Single-use devices, also, eliminate the need for medical staff to clean, disinfect, and sterilize reusable devices. With minimal preparation and effort, single-use medical devices can significantly increase a facility’s efficiency.
Cost. Although single-use medical devices may seem like a more expensive option, it’s usually a more cost-effective one in the long run. Many reusable devices require the purchase of additional accessories in order to ensure the device is safe for use among multiple patients. However, disposable products don’t require the purchase of additional accessories, and there’s no additional costs associated with cleaning, calibrating or repairing disposable devices. Reusable devices require the re-purchasing of decontamination supplies on a regular basis, and there is also the additional cost of machine maintenance, utility use, and employee time, which can greatly increase costs. Single-use supplies can provide the same quality as reusable devices without the additional cost of ongoing maintenance and upkeep. In the end, providers will see continued savings after making the switch to single-use medical supplies.
At Medical Indicators, we’re dedicated to manufacturing the highest-quality single-use thermometers for our customers. Our disposable thermometers save users time, energy and money, and most importantly, provide maximum infection control – ensuring the safety of both patients and their providers.
