Safe technology use in the operating room and related factors

Abstract

Background The rapid advancement of medical technologies has transformed operating rooms into complex, hightech environments. Ensuring the safe use of these technologies is vital for both patient and staff safety. Objectives This study aimed to assess the level of safe technology use among healthcare professionals in operating rooms and to identify factors influencing these practices. Methods This descriptive and correlational study was conducted between December 2024 and April 2025 in three hospitals in eastern Turkey. A total of 271 healthcare professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, anesthesia technicians, and nurses, participated. Data were collected using a Healthcare professional identification form and the Safe Use of Technology in the Operating Room Scale[SUTORS]. Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U, Kruskal-Wallis, and Spearman correlation tests. Results Participants reported high scores across all SUTORS sections: General Practices[M= 4.28 +/- 0.76], Surgical Team[M = 4.29 +/- 0.70], and Anesthesia Team[M = 4.49 +/- 0.51]. Statistically significant differences were observed by profession, education level, and prior training[p<0.05]. Nurses and anesthesia technicians general practices scored higher than surgeons and anesthesiologists. Also as General Practices increased, the anesthesia team's safe technology usage scores increased too [r = 0.686, p < 0.01]. Conclusion Operating room staff generally exhibit positive attitudes and behaviors toward the safe use of technology. Higher education and prior training are associated with improved safety practices. Institutions should implement regular in-service training to support safe and effective technology integration in surgical environments. Clinical trial number Not applicable.