Thursday, June 6, 2013

ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT 7 surgical diathermy safety


Safety

Responsibility

The surgeon using the diathermy must realize his overall responsibility, and check the alarm wiring and patient plate before use.

Safety Measures

Alarms

Monopolar diathermy depends on the patient plate for its safety. All diathermy machines in use will alarm when switched on if the plate is not connected to the machine. Safe practice demands rigid adherence to correct procedures:

     First the patient plate is connected to the patient

     The return lead is connected to the plate

     The diathermy machine is switched on 

     The plate continuity alarm will sound

     Then is the return lead connected to the diathermy machine.

     Thus silencing the continuity alarm

     The plate should be sited close to the operation

     Diathermy current is moving away for ECG and other monitoring electrodes

     The area under the plate should have a good blood supply to remove any heat generated

     All plates must have good skin contact

     Shave hairy skin and ensure the plate is not kinked or crinkled.

Patient

     The patient should not touch earthed metal objects such as drip stands, uninsulated ‘screens’, and parts of the operating table

     Check the dial settings before use

     If a spirit-based skin preparation fluid is used, ensure it has all evaporated

     Only the surgeon wielding the active electrode should activate the machine

     Always replace the electrode in an insulated quiver after use

     If diathermy performance is poor, carefully check the patient plate and lead rather than increase the dial settings.
 
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