Chapter 16: Safe Use of Surgical Energy

Question 1

Cite the safety reasons behind the perioperative RN doing the following:
Inspect the electrosurgical unit before use to verify electrical integrity.

Answer 1

It will minimize the potential for damage and patient injuries

Question 2

Cite the safety reasons behind the perioperative RN doing the following:
Assure that the prep solutions have dried and vapors evaporated before the device is used.

Answer 2

Prep solutions can be flammable

Question 3

Cite the safety reasons behind the perioperative RN doing the following:
Confirm each requested power setting change orally with the surgeon.

Answer 3

If not changed correctly it could cause patient burns

Question 4

Cite the safety reasons behind the perioperative RN doing the following:
Inspect each circuit component if the surgeon repeatedly requests high power settings

Answer 4

It could not be working properly

Question 5

What is the reasoning behind placing the dispersive electrode as close to the operative site as possible?

Answer 5

The current passes through the patient as it completes the circuit from the active electrode to the patient return electrode. You want it to remove the current from the patient safely and travel the smallest distance possible through the patient