Fig. 4.8 Suction device

A stand with a modified base, either circular or tapered, accommodates a kick bucket within the base (Fig. 4.9). Two mayo stands in each operative room allow surgical instruments to be organized on one and wound dressing materials on the other. Kick buckets with wheels are convenient as they can be easily moved by foot during a procedure. They are made of stainless steel often with a protective hard rubber steel rim.

4.4.8Waste Disposal

State and federal laws govern medical waste disposal. It is important to review relevant information from regulatory agencies to ensure that the Mohs surgery suite meets local, state and federal standards. The regulations will outline how medical waste should be handled, divided, and disposed. The Mohs surgery suite needs to be equipped with proper waste disposal devices for all sharps and biohazardous materials.

A sharps disposal container must be present in each Mohs surgery operative room. The type and volume of the sharps container chosen is based on the sharps being disposed. The sharps container should be durable, closable, and puncture and leak resistant on the bottom and sides [11]. The sharps container location is immediately accessible to the surgeon and assistant without obstacles to reduce risk of injury. Its optimal height for a standing work area is between 52” to 56”above the floor and 38” to 42” above the floor for a seated work area [11]. This configuration allows a person disposing sharps to reach the sharps container horizontally.

Fig. 4.9 Mayo stand with kick bucket

Containers used to transport or store regulated medical waste must have a warning label affixed to it. In lieu of biohazard signs, a red bag or red container may be used [12]. Red bags should be used in the kick bucket during surgery to discard any bloody items: gauze, suction canisters, or bandages. All other trash can be discarded as regular waste, including drapes and gowns.

Summary: Personal Protective Equipment

•Mohs surgery exposes surgeons and assistants to blood-borne pathogens. All operative rooms should be equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, eye protection, gowns, and gloves.