Discuss the precautions that should be considered when checking the ESU prior to commencement of surgery and applying the patient return electrode. Provide rationales for your answers
Mr Saunders is a 68-year-old male who is to undergo a right total knee replacement in your theatre. He is 174 cm tall and weighs 120 kg. He has previously received a left total hip replacement.
What will be an ideal response?
Answer:
Checking the ESU prior to commencement of surgery
Biomedical testing label shows the ESU machine has been tested and tagged as an appliance currently in date for your department
Electrical cord is intact and an adequate length for its safe placement in the OR
ESU machine has passed its self-testing mode after being turned on
Power settings are checked and minimised
Patient return electrode monitoring (REM) alarm system is functioning
Foot pedals are connected and clean
Accessories to be used for Mr Saunders' surgery are approved for that ESU machine, including the patient return electrodes (single-use adhesive plates or reusable table mat) and active electrode (sterile handpieces and tips)
Equipment for the safe evacuation of surgical plume generated by the ESU is available in the OR and has been tested before use
You might also like to view...
The nurse on the medical–surgical unit is reviewing discharge instructions with a patient who has a history of glaucoma. The nurse should anticipate the use of what medications?
A) Potassium-sparing diuretics B) Cholinergics C) Antibiotics D) Loop diuretics
The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) was established following a study in 1983. The center's purpose is to:
A) advance the level of nursing research funding. B) investigate and expand nursing theory. C) promote research for health promotion. D) evaluate the effect of current research.
A nurse is unsure whether a cleaning agent that is in use at the hospital is toxic. What information source should the nurse prioritize when making this judgment?
A) Advice from the charge nurse or unit manager B) An online search about the cleaning agent C) Information from the individual who is using the cleaner D) The Safety Data Sheets (SDS) about the cleaner
NG medication administration includes which principle(s)? (Select all that apply.)
a. The tube must be assessed for correct placement. b. All medications can be combined into one syringe. c. Tablets and capsules should be dissolved in water. d. The suction source should be immediately reconnected. e. Flush the tube with 30 mL of water after drug administration.