Dr. Ngun Kok Wah.
Consultant Anaesthetist,
Subang Jaya Medical Centre.
26 January, 2000.
Ms. Loke Choi
Ching,
Unit Manager,
Operating Theatres,
Subang Jaya Medical Centre.
Dear Ms. Loke,
After discussion among all the anaesthetists practising here in SJMC, we are of the opinion that the following form the minimum level of equipment before a case should be started. This list only addresses those items that we feel to be presently inadequate. Where the equipment are of sufficient standard, we have not listed them here. The list is not exhaustive and if you feel there are any items that need to be added or improved, we are most receptive to any suggestions from you.
1. Each operating theatre should have at least 2 separate and fully functional anaesthetic circuits, each with its own anaesthetic bag. One circuit should be the one chosen by the anaesthetist for that particular case and the other circuit should be available on standby in case the first circuit should fail. All connections must be fitting and secure. Plastic to metal connections must be avoided as they do not provide a safe and secure fit.
2. Each operating theatre must have 2 fully functioning laryngoscope handles. The lights in both handles must be checked before each case is started and any deficiencies corrected before the case is allowed to start. In particular, the light should be bright and stable (not flickering).
3. There should be at least 1 adult stethoscope in each operating theatre with 2 paediatric and 1 neonatal stethoscope available in each operating theatre complex.
4. There must be at least 1 water bath blood warmer per 3 operating theatres. That is, there must be 3 water baths, 2 in South Tower and 1 in North Tower. Finances permitting, there should, ideally, be 2 water baths in each complex.
We hope that you will be able to implement the above recommendations as soon as possible to ensure the continued safety of our patients.
You may contact me for further clarification at any time.
Thank you.,
Dr. Ngun Kok Wah.
Secretary,
Medical Advisory Board,
Subang Jaya Medical Centre.