Exam Table Paper: The Importance of Patient Safety

Medical exams and procedures involve close contact between patients and various pieces of equipment. To ensure the safety and well-being of patients, medical professionals rely on exam table paper. This protective barrier acts as a shield against harmful microorganisms and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.

What is Exam Table Paper?

Exam table paper serves as a protective layer between patients and treatment tables, massage tables, chiropractic chairs, and other medical equipment. It acts as a barrier, preventing the transfer of microorganisms from one patient to another through contact with a common surface. By providing an excellent defense against cross-contamination, exam table paper plays a crucial role in maintaining patient safety during medical procedures.

Keeping Patients Safe

The paper is conveniently stored on a roll for easy dispensing and storage. When needed, it can be easily unrolled to the desired length to cover the table or chair. This ensures that only one patient comes into contact with the paper, reducing the risk of contamination. After the check-up or medical procedure, the disposable paper is simply discarded.

What is Exam Paper Made Of?

Exam room table paper is crafted using strong and highly absorbent wood pulp fibers or recycled pulp. Its durability makes it difficult to tear, which is why many tables and chairs have a built-in paper dispenser with a cutter. This allows for easy cutting and separation of the paper from the roll.

It’s common for caregivers to leave the paper attached to the roll until the examination is completed and the patient has left the room. This provides additional stability, ensuring that the paper stays in place. Some paper rolls even come with perforations for easy tearing at intervals.

Doctor’s office paper rolls are typically available in white, off-white, or bright white, providing options that suit different preferences.

Where to Buy Exam Table Paper

Exam table paper is readily available at large office supply stores, retail department stores, and large drug store chains. However, for lower prices and a wide range of options, online platforms like Quill And Fox offer a convenient solution. Visit their website to explore the various exam table paper options they provide.

What are the Different Types of Exam Table Paper?

Medical bed paper comes in two texture options: smooth or crepe. Both options offer protection against the transfer of harmful contaminants, with the choice between them depending mainly on personal preference.

Smooth Table Paper

Smooth paper rolls are machine-glazed to provide a finish that resists moisture penetration. They offer the following advantages:

• Resists tearing
• Resists moisture penetration
• Provides a professional appearance

Crepe Table Paper

Crepe paper rolls have a textured surface, similar to paper towels. This texture minimizes slipping and offers a softer feel, providing greater comfort for patients. Additionally, crepe paper is less noisy when patients move across the table. Its advantages include:

• More absorbent
• Less scratch paper noise
• Soft
• Resists slipping
• Comfortable

Paper Weights

Exam table paper comes in different thicknesses, often measured as a paperweight numerical figure, a ply figure, or with “standard” or “deluxe” designations. The weight corresponds to the thickness and strength of the paper. Some common weight classifications include:

• Weight: 10 lb, 14 lb, 18 lb, etc.
• Ply: 2-ply, 4-ply, 6-ply, etc.
• Designation: Standard or Deluxe

Paper Roll Dimensions

Table paper is available in various widths to cover most massage tables, exam chairs, and physical therapy tables. Widths are typically measured in inches, with 18 and 21 inches being the most common options. Length is usually measured in feet, with 225 feet being the most popular length.

Additional Features

To cater to individual preferences, some exam table paper options come with additional features:

Print

Some medical offices opt for printed table paper to add an elegant touch to the room. Pediatric table paper, for example, often features prints related to children, such as animals, characters from Dr. Seuss, or cartoon characters.

Antimicrobial

To further enhance patient safety, certain paper rolls have an added antimicrobial agent coating. This coating protects against harmful microorganisms, including fungi, mold, mildew, and bacteria. It also reduces odor caused by bacteria and helps prevent cross-contamination.

Selecting the Best Product

Choosing the right exam table paper can be overwhelming. However, by considering the factors discussed above, you can narrow down your options significantly. Keep in mind that as you opt for a higher weight paper, which offers greater strength, absorbency, and protection, the price may increase.

Ensuring Patient Safety

Numerous studies, such as the one conducted by Molly Follette Story, Erin Schwier, and June Isaacson Kailes, highlight the importance of patient access to accessible medical equipment. By utilizing exam table paper, medical professionals prioritize patient safety and provide a vital layer of protection during medical procedures.

At Quill And Fox, you can find a wide range of exam table paper options to suit your specific needs. Visit their website here to explore their selection and ensure the utmost safety and comfort for your patients.

Sources:

• Story, Molly Follette, Erin Schwier, and June Isaacson Kailes. “Perspectives of patients with disabilities on the accessibility of medical equipment: tables, imaging equipment, medical chairs, and weight scales.” Disability and health Journal 2.4 (2009): 169-179.