In healthcare settings, the ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent the spread of infectious diseases is paramount. Medical carts, particularly crash carts and isolation carts, play a critical role in achieving these goals. These specialized storage solutions are designed to improve patient care by providing immediate access to essential equipment and supplies.
This blog will explore the features, benefits, and applications of crash carts and isolation carts, drawing on information from Southwest Solutions Group (SSG)’s comprehensive resources.
Crash carts, also known as code carts or emergency carts, are essential tools in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. They contain all the necessary medication and equipment to address life-threatening medical emergencies such as cardiac arrest. By providing medical staff with immediate access to the required equipment, crash carts enable life-saving care even outside the emergency department.
All crash carts generally contain a standard set of equipment and medications to address medical emergencies. This includes basic airway equipment, intravenous access equipment, a defibrillator, and heart monitor, as well as medications for treating cardiac arrest and allergic reactions. However, the specific organization and contents of an emergency cart can vary based on its application.
For example, pediatric carts should include medications and intubation equipment specialized for pediatric patients, while different healthcare facilities or hospital departments may have specialized crash carts tailored to their needs. An anesthesia cart would contain equipment for anesthesia personnel, whereas a standard medical crash cart might differ from surgical, ICU, emergency room, or cardiac crash carts.
When selecting an emergency cart for your facility or department, it is essential to assess the specific needs of your application, including the type of equipment and supplies required. Customizing your crash cart to your requirements with dimensions, color coding, and locks can enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Crash carts come in various sizes, and you can integrate drawers of different dimensions into the same cart for more efficient supply storage. Southwest Solutions Group offers emergency carts with the following dimensions:
Emergency carts store many different types of supplies, so implementing a color coding system can make it easier for staff to locate the supplies they need in an emergency. You can choose from 17 powder coat colors available in a two-tone or solid finish to color-code the drawers on your carts for quick identification.
Emergency carts have several different locking options to choose from. Breakaway locks are one of the most popular options because they provide the quickest access to stored equipment. Breakaway locks consist of a hinged bracket with an eye hole for a plastic or metal seal, indicating whether the supplies have been tampered with. Other locking options include key locks, push-button locks, electronic locks, and proximity readers.
Isolation carts, also known as infection control carts, are specialized equipment used in hospitals and other healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. These cabinets provide a secure and contained environment for storing and transporting medical equipment, supplies, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Medical infection control carts transport and store infectious materials, such as biohazardous waste or contaminated equipment. These carts are typically made of durable materials, such as stainless steel, and feature sealed compartments to prevent the spread of infectious materials. They may also have built-in mechanisms to sterilize the cart’s contents between uses, such as ultraviolet light or chemical disinfectants.
Isolation carts are sealed and airtight, preventing air exchange between the inside and outside of the cabinet. This sealing helps prevent the spread of infectious particles and bacteria and ensures that the equipment and supplies stored inside the cabinet remain sterile.
One of the main benefits of using isolation carts in hospitals is that they help reduce the risk of infection by keeping infectious materials and PPE contained and separate from other equipment and supplies. This separation helps to prevent the spread of disease and protects healthcare workers and patients from exposure to dangerous pathogens.
Another benefit of isolation carts is that they can help improve efficiency and organization in the hospital setting. Having all the necessary materials and equipment readily available allows healthcare workers to quickly and easily access what they need without searching for items or wasting time during procedures. This quick and easy access helps to minimize delays and improve the overall flow of the hospital.
In addition to these benefits, it is vital to have a system in place for proper cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance of the isolation carts. This ensures that these carts continue to function properly and maintain the required healthcare safety measures.
Southwest Solutions Group® provides design and installation services for crash carts and isolation carts in hospitals and other healthcare facilities on GSA, Vizient, and various other Group Purchasing Organization contracts.
We will also provide a free consultation to determine your exact needs and specifications before the design begins. To learn more or to speak with a specialist, call us at 866-802-0017 or fill out our contact form today.