A key updated element of AORN’s Recommended Practices calls for a formal perioperative laser safety program, which should include a multidisciplinary laser safety committee and established criteria and authorized procedures for healthcare professionals working with lasers. AORN has also recommended the laser safety program identify laser hazards and administrative, engineering and procedural control measures.
The Recommended Practices also calls for a laser safety officer, whose primary responsibility is to assess accountability and inventory of all lasers used in all specialties and to ensure proper training and operations of all lasers. Other updates to the Recommended Practices include safety recommendations for the laser assistant or other technicians or healthcare professionals that operate the laser.
Since the use of lasers also poses a risk for fire outbreaks, AORN has recommended facilities build in local exhaust ventilation to be used as first-line protection from surgical smoke and require healthcare professionals working in close proximity to the laser to wear respiratory protection.
Read the news report about laser safety.
Read other coverage about patient safety:
– Study: Delays in Elective Surgery in Hospitals Increase Risk of Infections, Raise Costs
– Study Suggests UV Lighting in Patient Rooms Can Reduce Number of Pathogens
– Forced-Air Warmers Can Emit Contaminated Air Particles, Study Suggests
