Sample interview questions: Discuss your knowledge of surgical smoke plume hazards and safety measures.
Sample answer:
Surgical Smoke Plume Hazards:
-
Toxic Chemicals: Surgical smoke plume contains a complex mixture of toxic chemicals released during the use of lasers, electrosurgical devices, and ultrasonic instruments. These chemicals include benzene, formaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide, and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
-
Respiratory Hazards: Inhalation of surgical smoke plume can cause a range of respiratory illnesses. Immediate effects include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Long-term exposure may lead to chronic respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer.
-
Reproductive Hazards: Studies have demonstrated that exposure to surgical smoke plume can negatively impact reproductive health. It can increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, low birth weight, and congenital anomalies.
-
Genetic Hazards: Some components of surgical smoke plume have been found to be mutagenic, meaning they can cause DNA damage. This damage may increase the risk of cancer and other genetic disorders.
-
Environmental Hazards: The release of surgical smoke plume into the environment contributes to air pollution and can harm wildlife.
Safety Measures:
-
Smoke Evacuation Systems: The use of smoke evacuation systems is essential to minimize exposure to surgical smoke plume in the operating room. These systems effectively capture and remove smoke and vapor from the surgical site.
-
Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is crucial to ensure that the operating room air is clean and free of contaminants. Proper ventilation systems help dilute and remove surgical smoke plume and other airborne contaminants.
-
Personal Protective Equip… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_11/Operating%20Room%20%28OR%29%20Nurse