Kidney dish

Kidney dish or emesis basin is a shallow basin with a kidney-shaped footprint and sloping walls used in medical and surgical wards to collect fluids or debris from patients. The design of the kidney dish allows it to be held against the patient's body to catch any falling material during a procedure or while the patient is sick.

Design and Usage

The kidney dish is made from various materials, including stainless steel, plastic, or disposable materials designed for single use to prevent cross-contamination between patients. Its unique shape is not only ergonomic but also functional, as it fits closely to the patient's body contours, particularly around the neck area for dental procedures or near the chest and abdomen during minor surgeries or when collecting vomit.

Applications in Healthcare

In healthcare settings, the kidney dish's applications are diverse. It is commonly used during surgeries to hold small instruments, gauze, tissues, or bodily fluids. Nurses and healthcare professionals also use it to carry and organize medical supplies, such as swabs, needles, and dressings, during patient care activities. Furthermore, it serves an essential role in infection control practices by acting as a receptacle for used materials that may be contaminated, thereby reducing the spread of infectious agents.

Historical Background

The kidney dish's design has remained relatively unchanged since its inception, highlighting its effectiveness and importance in medical care. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the need for practical and hygienic medical instruments led to the development of specialized tools and containers for use in the burgeoning field of surgery and nursing care.

Environmental Considerations

With the increasing awareness of environmental issues, the use of disposable kidney dishes has come under scrutiny. While they offer convenience and reduce the risk of cross-contamination, concerns about the environmental impact of single-use plastics have led to a reevaluation of practices and an interest in more sustainable options, such as biodegradable materials or the more traditional, sterilizable stainless steel dishes.

See Also

• Medical equipment
• Surgical instruments
• Infection control
• Healthcare waste management