Awareness is Power: Legislative Updates and Resources to Advocate for Smoke-Free ORs

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Keyword(s) 1536-2023, CONMED, e-learning, Legislation, smoke-free; plume, surgical smoke; smoke evacuation; filtration, AORN guidelines; Occupational Safety and Health Administration; OSHA; National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; NIOSH; Hierarchy of controls; regulatory requirement; Ultra-low particulate air; ULPA; in-line filter; particulate matter; Most penetrating Particle Size; MPPS

Credit CA:1.0

Description

When working in the operating room the surgical team is exposed to surgical smoke every day from several different devices such as an electrosurgical unit, lasers, and high-speed power systems. It has been known since 1988 about the hazards of surgical smoke when a “Hazard Information Bulletin” was first issued from OSHA and NIOSH. There are currently no national regulations that exist to require smoke safety in the operating room, therefore there is a need for legislation state by state to inform health care professionals about the hazards of surgical smoke for the protection of the surgical team and patients. It is important to be an advocate for surgical smoke evacuation in your facility by gaining knowledge, getting involved, and becoming a smoke safety champion. This program will discuss the current legislative status for surgical smoke safety in the U.S. and the importance of being an advocate for smoke evacuation. There will be a review of the steps for getting prepared for legislation and implementing smoke evacuation in your facility. Also, a review of the AORN hierarchy of evidence and recommendations in the guideline for surgical smoke safety.