Convertors® Infection Control
Educational program
Using the ANSI/AAMI PB70:2003 Standard to help select drapes & gowns
Lit. No. CON01380
Surgical barrier materials have a dual purpose: (1) to protect the patient and particularly the surgical site from exposure to microorganisms that may be present in the patient's own microbial flora, the OR environment or on members of the surgical team, and (2) to protect the surgical team from microorganisms that may be shed by the patient. Until recently, no objective classification system was available to define the level of protection offered by such products. Finally, in 2003, the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) published a new standard, ANSI/AAMI PB70:2003 Liquid Barrier Performance and Classification of Protective Apparel and Drapes Intended for Use in Health Care Facilities, that uses four previously defined standardized testing methods to identify the level of protection offered by surgical gowns and drapes. This study guide explains the provisions of ANSI/AAMI PB70 in detail, as well as the standardized tests and other factors that must be taken into account when choosing barrier products.
Intended Audience
This self-study activity is designed to be used by surgeons, nurses, surgical technologists, and infection control practitioners who want to learn more about how to select appropriate gowns and drapes for the operating room using the current standards and selection criteria.
Accreditation/Credit Hours
- Two contact hours provided by an agency accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
- Two contact hours approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, provider number CEP13221.
- In addition, HealthStream is a State Board approved provider of Nursing CE in Florida (NCE2344) and Iowa (272).
This continuing medical education activity was provided by Cardinal Health with educational grant funds and is sponsored by HealthStream.
