Message from AORN

Groah, Linda K.

doi:10.1016/j.aorn.2007.11.002

« Previous Next »AORN Journal
Volume 86, Supplement 1 , Page S11, December 2007

Message from AORN

Article Outline

Dear OR Professional,

We are pleased to bring you the OR Product Directory (ORPD) as a supplement to the AORN Journal. In discussion with our members, we consistently hear how useful the ORPD is to perioperative managers, staff, and purchasing agents in their selection of equipment and supplies.

If you prefer the online product directory, it can be found at www.orpd.org. The online ORPD is updated regularly and provides perioperative users with the most up-to-date product information available. Regardless of format, we hope that it will be useful in day-to-day operations for all your purchasing needs.

The ORPD allows you to identify sources for almost every piece of equipment available for surgical services, along with contact information for distributors and manufacturers. Whether you are looking for new technology, replacing outdated equipment, or constructing a new surgical suite, having information at your fingertips will save you and your colleagues purchasing time, energy, and money.

Before purchasing capital equipment, you should consider several questions:

•Have all the related expenses been identified?

•Are the quoted prices subject to change? If so, when?

•Is patient safety impacted if the equipment is not purchased?

•Are there any alternatives to purchasing the equipment?

•Is there a less expensive model that will meet the basic need?

•Will cost savings or revenue enhancements occur as a result of the equipment purchase?

•What documentation is in place to verify that the equipment is required to support an increased workload?

•If the equipment is to be a replacement item, what have been the past repair costs and associated downtime with the current equipment?

•Has the feasibility of lease financing been explored?

•What is the life expectancy of the technology?

•Will the present technology be superseded by new technology? When?

The final phase of capital budget preparation is establishing priorities and defining the time of purchase. Don't forget to include in the purchase order a request for the operating manual, inservice training for the staff, and conditions of warranty.

The AORN Journal and the ORPD provide added value to you as a member. We hope that you find this new ORPD informative and useful and that you share it with your colleagues in purchasing.