A smooth, and successful electrosurgery, as other surgery, comes with careful preparation and proper knowledge with the do’s and don’ts before and during the procedure. Stay safe and ready by taking electrosurgery safety precautions.
1. Prepare the patient for the procedure.
Keep the patient’s application site clean, dry, and shaved as excess hair is the most common cause of electrosurgical burns.
Avoid placement near scars or implant sites and consult a cardiologist when a patient is wearing a pacemaker or pulse generator for interference with these devices caused by electrosurgical equipment can cause malfunction.
Metal objects also increase the risk of burns so make sure the patient has removed any electricity-conducting items like jewelry, phone, and pen before the procedure. Never forget to ensure the patient does not come in contact with any metal part of the procedure table and other metal materials.
2. Be familiar with the equipment.
It is important to have a thorough knowledge on all the electrosurgery equipment to help in proper, smooth, and safe operation. Learn how to use the equipment and remember the correct settings in different procedures.
Use generators at the lowest setting recommended for the procedure and never substitute accessories and use them in any other method than for what they were intended.
Remember to read the manual carefully and review it when necessary. Keep in mind that knowledge comes first. Expertise comes naturally with constant practice and discipline.
3. Handle the equipment properly.
Always return the handpiece to the nonconductive holster or quiver when not in use. Place the electrode tip in its insulated container while on the surgical field.
Identify the correct plug ports for connecting the appropriate cables. Do not use sharp or metallic instruments to attach the electrosurgical unit cables to drapes. This can damage electrical cables, cause electric shock to the patient or operator, or ignite drapes.
Most importantly, keep the equipment well-maintained and tested to ensure they are working properly.
4. Use a smoke evacuation system.
Smoke plume can contain toxic gases and vapors, such as benzene, hydrogen cyanide, formaldehyde, bioaerosols, dead and live cellular material, and viruses. A smoke evacuation system must be installed in the room to protect the area from harmful gases and reduce potential acute and chronic health risks to patients and personnel.
5. Keep everything dry.
Electricity and water is a dangerous combination as electricity travels through the water and through the human body. Only start using the electrosurgical equipment if the prepping solution is thoroughly dry. Never operate with wet hands and gloves nor stand on a wet surface.
Protect the foot pedal with a waterproof cover to avoid possible fluid spillage.
6. Avoid flammable substances.
Electrical current can spark almost any flammable substance like alcohol which is commonly present in the operating room. Do not use alcohol-based skin prepping solution and do not allow the liquid to pool by the dispersive pad.
7. Take care of the electrode tips.
Clean the electrode tips regularly to prevent dead tissue build-up and prevent burning of the tissue. Avoid using abrasive scratch pads to clean the electrode tip as these damage the tip surface, increasing dead tissue build-up. Teflon tips are recommended as they clean easily and do not require a scratch pad.