Eco-audit of the Nail Bed Injury Treatment Pathway at a Tertiary Care Hospital.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Surgery is the most energy-intensive healthcare practice contributing to climate change. Nail bed injuries are among the most frequently encountered types of hand injuries seen in emergency rooms; however, their environmental impact has yet to be elucidated. This study assessed the carbon footprint associated with nail bed injury treatment and proposed alternatives, where feasible, to mitigate its impact.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed patients undergoing NBI treatment from August 2022 to August 2023 at the Royal Free Hospital. The carbon footprint was calculated perioperatively using process mapping. Emissions were quantified based on patient travel, imaging, energy consumption, consumables used, waste disposal, and product transportation. A survey was

SUBMITTER: Glynou SP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12834445 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature