Aorn Humidity Guidelines Today

Historically, healthcare standards mandated a minimum threshold of 30% or 35% relative humidity inside the surgical suite. However, changes implemented by standard-setting organizations shifted the mandatory floor downward.

While dry air does not necessarily increase bacteria survival, high humidity (>60%) creates a breeding ground for mold, fungi, and bacteria. It also causes condensation on cold surfaces (like lighting fixtures or medical gas cylinders), which can drip into the sterile field. aorn humidity guidelines

| Parameter | AORN Guideline | |-----------|----------------| | | 20–60% relative humidity | | Action threshold (low) | <20% for 15+ min | | Action threshold (high) | >60% for 15+ min | | Monitoring | Continuous, visible in OR | | Evidence basis | SSI prevention, infection control, equipment safety | It also causes condensation on cold surfaces (like

Note: Check your facility’s policy – some state health departments or accreditors (e.g., TJC, DNV) may still require 30–60% or 35–60%. In such cases, the stricter standard applies. : While AORN provides the framework, individual hospitals

: While AORN provides the framework, individual hospitals must develop their own multidisciplinary policies involving Facilities Management and Infection Prevention [1].

Note: Check your facility’s policy – some state health departments or accreditors (e.g., TJC, DNV) may still require 30–60% or 35–60%. In such cases, the stricter standard applies.

: While AORN provides the framework, individual hospitals must develop their own multidisciplinary policies involving Facilities Management and Infection Prevention [1].