Eyewear, goggles, and/or faceshields should be worn

Eyewear, goggles, and/or faceshields should be worn

• A. On every case
• B. Only when splash risk exists
• C. Only by surgeons
• D. Never

Answer: (A)

Eye protection is essential in the OR to shield the eyes and face from splashes, sprays, and debris that can occur during any surgical case. Unexpected splatter can happen during suctioning, irrigation, drilling, or instrument changes, so waiting for a splash risk to be present isn’t reliable. Wearing eyewear, goggles, or faceshields for every case provides consistent protection for all team members and aligns with universal precautions to prevent exposure to blood and bodily fluids. It’s a standard safety practice for the entire sterile team, not just the surgeon, and it should be maintained throughout the procedure and handling of instruments. Since the risk can arise at any time, this approach minimizes potential harm and is the safest choice.

Eye protection is essential in the OR to shield the eyes and face from splashes, sprays, and debris that can occur during any surgical case. Unexpected splatter can happen during suctioning, irrigation, drilling, or instrument changes, so waiting for a splash risk to be present isn’t reliable. Wearing eyewear, goggles, or faceshields for every case provides consistent protection for all team members and aligns with universal precautions to prevent exposure to blood and bodily fluids. It’s a standard safety practice for the entire sterile team, not just the surgeon, and it should be maintained throughout the procedure and handling of instruments. Since the risk can arise at any time, this approach minimizes potential harm and is the safest choice.