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Prevention and Safety During Surgical Procedures ::

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Control of Ignition Sources ::

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Controlling the fire triangle is an interdisciplinary effort. Consequently, all members of the team have an integral role to play. Generally, the surgeon or the first assistant controls the ignition source. The perioperative staff, including nurses and surgical technologists, controls the fuel sources. The anesthesia provider, who may be an anesthesiologist, nurse anesthetist or a registered nurse monitoring a patient under local anesthesia, controls oxidizers in the O.R.

Through awareness of the hazards, and with emphasis placed on safe practices, virtually all surgical fires can be prevented. It is important that surgical fire safety be incorporated into formal patient safety initiatives.

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