Safe use of Surgical Energy

Question 1

Avoid placing the dispersive electrode in these areas:

Answer 1

• Bony prominences
• Area over an implanted prosthesis
• Hairy areas
• Tattooed areas
• Scar tissue

Question 2

Argon-enhanced coagulation technology (AEC):

PRECAUTIONS: The AEC provides a secondary source of gas that can result in __________

Answer 2

a rapid rise in the patient’s intra-abdominal pressure. This pressure may exceed venous pressure, creating the potential for gas emboli formation.

Question 3

Capacitive Coupling: ______

Answer 3

Capacitive coupling is the transfer of electrical current from the active electrode through intact insulation to adjacent conductive items, such as tissue or trocars.