HCA Florida Blake Hospital earns AORN Go Clear Award for surgical smoke safety excellence

HCA Florida Blake Hospital has been recognized with the prestigious AORN Go Clear Award for creating an environment free of surgical smoke to benefit patients and Blake Hospital colleagues. Surgical smoke, a byproduct of certain surgical instruments used during procedures, can pose health risks if not properly managed. The hospital’s operating room, endoscopy, emergency department, cardiac catheterization and interventional radiology departments have all earned the distinction.

Presented by the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), the Go Clear Award recognizes healthcare facilities that have successfully eliminated surgical smoke by implementing comprehensive policies, education and smoke evacuation technology to protect both patients and staff. Surgical smoke, a hazardous byproduct of laser and electrosurgical procedures, poses significant health risks to those exposed.

“We are incredibly proud to receive the AORN Go Clear Award,” said Tiffany Shanks, director of surgical services at HCA Florida Blake Hospital. “Eliminating surgical smoke is a critical part of our comprehensive safety program, and this award validates our efforts to provide the highest quality care in a safe and healthy environment."

To earn the award, departments must demonstrate consistent use of smoke evacuation systems during procedures that generate surgical smoke. They must also establish formal policies, educate clinical staff and maintain compliance through ongoing monitoring.

“Surgical smoke occurs every day in operating rooms and poses health risks to those exposed to it. AORN created this program so that every facility can understand the urgency and take steps to protect the health and safety of patients, nurses, physicians, and support staff,” said David Wyatt, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, CNOR, FAORN, FAAN, AORN CEO & Executive Director. “This Center of Excellence for Surgical Safety designation shows the community that the surgical teams at HCA Florida Blake Hospital are committed to providing high-quality care.”