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.
Any questions be sent to drmmkapur@gmail.com
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