National Fire Prevention Week perfect time to learn ways to stop surgical fires

October 13, 2017 | By: Eunice Halverson, MA, CPPS

The Center for Patient Safety joins The Joint Commission in recognizing National Fire Prevention Week. Unfortunately, surgical fires continue to occur. Recent reports to the Center’s PSO include:

4×4 held by the surgeon caught on fire from a cautery during eye surgery
Electrical fire in the fluoro base of a cysto table
Flash fire during removal of a mole
Patient’s beard started on fire during removal of lesions with cautery

It’s never too late to remind staff and physicians about the factors that contribute to surgical fires and lace to reduce the risk of surgical fires. Together, we can make a safer environment!

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