Innovation in the Operating Room

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska – U.S. Air Force Maj. Nick Lents, a 673d Surgical Operations Squadron nurse, tightens down a safety restraint at the hospital on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 5, 2021. Lents worked with the Arctic Spark team to develop a 3D printed part to help in the application of the safety restraints. A gap in the railing prevented the straps from being tightened down on certain parts of the bed, often causing the restraints to be positioned sub-optimally for patient safety and comfort. After development of the part, it solved this problem by bridging the gap and supporting the straps.