Vendors entering procedural and sterile areas face new rules

RepScrubs program starts Oct. 13

As part of our commitment to provide exceptional patient care in a safe and cost-effective environment, Salem Health is launching RepScrubs to strengthen vendor credentialing compliance in procedural areas. This effort aligns with our system-wide focus on upholding the highest standards for patient and staff safety, while meeting all regulatory requirements.

RepScrubs has been successfully implemented at hundreds of hospitals nationwide and is recognized as a standard best practice with substantial adoption and vendor acclamation across the U.S.

What’s changing?

While vendor credentialing has long been part of our protocol, the addition of RepScrubs will enhance our process by:

• Verifying vendor credentials in real time.
• Ensuring all vendor representatives entering procedural and sterile areas are dressed in appropriate, hospital-approved attire.

Starting Monday, Oct. 13, all vendor representatives entering procedural and sterile areas will be required to:

• Dispense a set of RepScrubs from a ScrubPort machine located in the following areas:
  • Main OR/Endo: A3, east of the public elevators, just outside of the double doors into the hallway where SPD is located.
  • Building S: 3^rd floor, in the open area at the top of the stairs.
• Wear RepScrubs attire, which includes:
  • Disposable scrubs.
  • Red and white bouffant caps.
  • Shoe covers.
  • A single day expiring name badge with the vendor’s name, company, hospital name and date/time of issue.

Why this matters

This enhanced identification process ensures:

• Improved safety and clear vendor identification in procedural and sterile areas.
• Strengthened compliance across the vendor community.
• Audit-ready documentation for regulatory requirements.
• Real-time and historical visit tracking through a web-based portal.

Register now

All vendors must be registered with RepScrubs to participate and gain access to procedural areas. Vendors who are not yet enrolled can register here.

Thank you for your support in reinforcing this important safety initiative and for your continued dedication to quality care and safety!

Questions? Email shelby.bailey@salemhealth.org or learn more about RepScrubs here.