Valleylab ForceTriad - Energy Platform Safety Precautions

General
Patient and Operating Room
Safety
ForceTriad User’s Guide 2-5
Energy Platform
Fire Hazard Sparking and heating associated with electrosurgery can be an
ignition source. Keep gauze and sponges wet. Keep electrosurgical electrodes
away from flammable materials and oxygen (O
2
) enriched environments.
Use of electrosurgery in O
2
rich environments increases the risk of fire.
Therefore, take measures to reduce the O
2
concentration at the surgical site.
Avoid enriched O
2
and nitrous oxide (N
2
O) atmospheres near the surgical site.
Both O
2
and N
2
O support combustion and may result in fires and burns to
patients or surgical personnel.
If possible, stop supplemental oxygen at least one minute before and during use
of electrosurgery.
Do not activate the energy platform until flammable vapors from skin prep
solutions and tinctures have dissipated.
Avoid the accumulation of naturally occurring flammable gases that may
accumulate in body cavities such as the bowel.
Prevent pooling of flammable fluids and the accumulation of flammable or
oxidizing gases or vapors under surgical drapes or near the surgical site.
Tissue buildup (eschar) on the tip of an active electrode may create embers that
pose a fire hazard, especially in oxygen enriched environments. Keep the
electrode clean and free of all debris.
Facial and other body hair is flammable. Water soluble surgical lubricating jelly
may be used to cover hair close to the surgical site to decrease flammability.
Verify that all anesthesia circuit connections are leak free before and during use
of electrosurgery.
Fire Hazard During Oropharyngeal Surgery
Verify endotracheal tubes are leak free and that the cuff seals properly to prevent
oxygen leaks.
If an uncuffed tube is in use, pack the throat with wet sponges around the
uncuffed tube, and be sure to keep sponges wet throughout the procedure.
Question the need for 100% O
2
during oropharyngeal or head and neck surgery.
If necessary, scavenge excess O
2
with separate suction.
Warning
Each instrument receptacle on this energy platform is designed to accept only
one instrument at a time. Do not attempt to connect more than one instrument at
a time into a receptacle. Doing so will cause simultaneous activation of the
instruments. Follow the instructions provided with electrosurgical instruments for
proper connection and use.
Caution
Do not stack equipment on top of the energy platform or place the energy
platform on top of electrical equipment. This is an unstable configuration and
does not allow for adequate cooling.
Warning