There are many studies examining the negative impact of
distractions in operating rooms, as well as guidelines and norms to limit it.
Distractions in the operating room are dangerous because of
their high potential in generating accidents that can be a threat to patient
safety. Surgeons must have their
attention focused on the medical procedures they perform, because they require
high levels of attention and cognitive processes. Distractions are particularly
detrimental in this case and this is one of the reasons why noises are limited
in the operating rooms and distracting technologic devices are not allowed.
But these are not the only factors that may distract
surgeons from performing their job. Sometimes it is the quality of the basic surgical instruments themselves that increases or reduces the specialist`s focus.
Surgeons use different medical instruments; some are simple,
while others are very complex and even combine different technologies. All
these medical instruments must be high quality, because deviations could be a
threat to patients` lives, or cause serious injury.
If the instrument is not as it should be, the surgeon will
feel frustration while using it and may lose their focus and patience. On the
other hand, a high quality medical instrument will help the surgeon to operate
smoothly, and the chances of success are considerably higher.
