Regarding this week's module on greening healthcare, I was astonished to learn that 36% of nurses reported exposures to anesthetic gases and exposures led to an increased risk of congenital anomalies by sevenfold. As a former circulatory nurse working in the operation room, the data does concern me, and it allows me to be more mindful of all the chemical exposures that can occur in the healthcare setting. Also, I will consider choosing DEHP-free products in the hospital to reduce patients' risk for PVC and phthalate exposure. Furthermore, I am more conscious about handling medical waste so it can be appropriately disposed of.
This article stated that the health care industry is a significant contributor to climate change, as "healthcare creates a tenth of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions." In a separate article, Harveston revealed that the health care industry produces at least 4 billion pounds of waste annually. As a result, hospitals can convert to clean energy to reduce their environmental impact, and healthcare professionals can collaborate with policymakers to raise awareness regarding health risks due to climate change.
UCSF's green team is known as the "UCSF Office of Sustainability," and there is a specific page on their website involving "Greening the Medical Center." In 2015, the institution was recognized and given the Practice Green Health Environmental Excellence Award. After some research, the UCSF Supply Chain Management are the ones that make purchasing decisions.
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Hello Candy, I was concerned too! Dr Sattler's speech about Greening Healthcare was very informative. I worked in Operation room too. we know nurses in OR are prone to different toxics like anesthesia gases, medical devices, and medications in a closed area for several hours. It is a concern!
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