In the context of operating room air, what does a 'positive pressure' differential imply?

In the context of operating room air, what does a 'positive pressure' differential imply?

• A. The OR air is at a higher pressure than surrounding areas
• B. The OR air is at a lower pressure than surrounding areas
• C. The OR air is equal pressure
• D. The OR air pressure varies randomly

Answer: (A)

Positive pressure means the air inside the operating room is at a higher pressure than the surrounding areas. Air always moves from higher pressure to lower pressure, so this setup causes air to flow outward when doors or gaps exist. That outward flow helps prevent potentially contaminated room air from being drawn back in from hallways or adjacent rooms, thereby protecting the sterile environment. This is why operating rooms are kept at a positive pressure relative to surrounding areas. Negative pressure, by contrast, pulls air into the room to contain contaminants within the space.

Positive pressure means the air inside the operating room is at a higher pressure than the surrounding areas. Air always moves from higher pressure to lower pressure, so this setup causes air to flow outward when doors or gaps exist. That outward flow helps prevent potentially contaminated room air from being drawn back in from hallways or adjacent rooms, thereby protecting the sterile environment. This is why operating rooms are kept at a positive pressure relative to surrounding areas. Negative pressure, by contrast, pulls air into the room to contain contaminants within the space.