Through the lens of a Hospital - Blue Print… a mandatory document

Through the lens of a Hospital - Bio Medical Department                                          Dtd May 13,2022

Blue Print… a mandatory document

Renovation work was on process. Cabins were being renovated. Construction of modular OT was on process. The project team instructed that the oxygen pipeline fitted near the entrance of the adjacent cabin needs to be disconnected. The Project team was requested to wait till another day so that proper decision could be made but they were reluctant to wait. Blueprint was also not available.

A message was circulated on whats app as there was no time to circulate the circular. Sufficient  oxygen cylinders were provided in the OTs, critical care areas, ward etc. Floor wise oxygen valves would have facilitated the task but it was observed that floor wise valves were not there.The Vision I Healthcare staff cut the oxygen pipeline which needed to be discarded. Our officials including fire safety officer was present to avoid any untoward disaster. 

Hack saw blade was used to cut as the oxygen pipeline was underlying the false roof. After 15-20 minutes struggle the pipe was cut…But to our great surprise it was found that the oxygen supply was stopped in the cabin located opposite to the cabin as well. There was no patient issue as the cabin was not occupied. Due to lack of blue print this mistake had occurred.

Our team came under pressure, now we had to again join the oxygen pipeline. It was a challenging job. As there was hardly any space between the false ceiling and the pipeline, it was a difficult task to do, but we had to.

While doing welding it was found that the fumes entered the false ceiling, it might become dangerous as the false ceiling was made of thin woods. We used “Karni” (a tool used by the mason) to restrict the entry of fumes in the ceiling. After struggling for around half an hour the welding of oxygen pipeline was completed.

BME with the help of her assistants flushed out the gas inside the oxygen pipeline as the precautionary measure. Finally the task was completed.

   Lessons to be learnt:-

1. Blue Print of medical gas pipeline, electrical items should be available..

2. Floor wise medical gas valves should be present so that maintenance work can be done.

3. Sufficient  oxygen cylinders should be kept to meet the emergency crisis.