About the Webinar:
For more than 25 years, health risks associated with surgical smoke exposure have been debated. In 1996, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) confirmed that smoke produced by laser or electrosurgery units may contain toxic vapors, blood fragments, and viruses which subsequently can produce respiratory and eye irritation in health care personnel. Aside from unpleasant odors, surgical smoke has known mutagenic potential. National and international organizations have long recommended the use of smoke evacuation systems; however, adoption of these recommendations has been slow. Data from the NIOSH Health & Safety Practices Survey of Healthcare Workers indicate that only 14% reported evacuating surgical smoke during electrosurgery procedures, and 47% reported use during laser procedures. This webinar will review current research findings, a concept analysis, and a policy analysis on the topic of surgical smoke evacuation to raise awareness and advocate for the use of smoke evacuation systems and respiratory protection for healthcare workers.