Toxic smoke protection for patients, staff urged

Toxic plumes in surgical smoke are a hazard to patients, surgeons, and nurses


Surgeons, patients and nurses breathing in poisons and viral particles in surgical smoke will have to wait for any new minimum protections in New Zealand, according to an article on the Stuff website.

WorkSafe NZ has no specific guidance relating to toxic electrosurgical smoke plumes.

Surgeon Dr Bruce Hodgson urged all hospitals to adopt a more effective surgical smoke evacuation technology.

Staff at Dunedin's Mercy Hospital and the Nurses Organisation (NZNO) last weekend called for a national debate on the issue, which had flown under the radar for years, the article said.

Read the article.

 

 



June 15, 2016


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

How Curated Art Elevates Senior Care Spaces

Thoughtfully selected artwork can shape perception, improve flow and create a more engaging care environment.


The CDC's Guide to Hand Hygiene in Healthcare

Hand hygiene may seem simple, but the CDC has a set of guidelines that all healthcare facility managers and staff should be aware of. These are just a few of the notable tips. 


Dana-Farber, BIDMC Launch Construction of Dedicated Adult Cancer Hospital

Deconstruction begins on former Joslin site as 300-bed, oncology-focused facility moves toward a planned 2031 opening.


5 Components of an Integrated Safety Culture in Healthcare

The goal is not to create a fortress but to build a space where patients feel protected and caregivers feel empowered to deliver exceptional care.


NYC Opens Therapeutic Housing Unit for Medically Vulnerable Detainees

The NYC Health + Hospitals system has launched a 104-bed Outposted Therapeutic Housing Unit at Bellevue Hospital, offering specialized care for detainees with serious medical conditions.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.