The American Society of Anesthesiologists has released a safety alert highlighting “boom strikes,” head injuries caused by collisions with ceiling-mounted equipment, as a growing concern for both physician and patient safety in operating rooms, according to an April 21 news release.
Here are five things to know:
1. Boom strikes occur when clinicians accidentally hit their heads on fixed or movable arms in the operating room, such as those supporting monitors, screens or surgical lighting.
2. These injuries are especially prevalent in ASCs and during after-hours procedures. As operating rooms incorporate more advanced equipment and surgical procedures expand into non-traditional settings, the risk of head injuries has increased, according to the release.
3. Due to their limited workspace and the need for swift movements during emergencies, anesthesiologists face a higher risk of head injuries from boom strikes.
4. According to an ASA survey, more than half of anesthesiologists have experienced work-related injuries, including head trauma. Some incidents have been severe enough to cause loss of consciousness, requiring emergency medical attention.
5. The ASA has released a Statement on Anesthesiologist Head Injuries in Anesthetizing Locations, which outlines how and why these injuries occur, the potential safety risks for both providers and patients and recommended strategies for hospitals and ASCs to reduce the incidence of these injuries.
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