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S U S T A I N A B L E
S U C C E S S
cals and anesthetics you use because some have more of an environmental impact than others. For example, newer inhalational agents
remain in the atmosphere for up to 14 years, according to the ASA.
Desflurane is least friendly to the environment, followed by isoflurane
and sevoflurane. Nitrous oxide decreases the amount of volatile agent
required, but has its own significant greenhouse gas emission.
The ASA says environmentally conscious providers should tailor
anesthetics to individual case needs, reserving desflurane and nitrous
oxide for instances when alternatives such as intravenous agents and
regional blocks are inappropriate. In addition, notes the ASA, using
low-flow anesthesia (see "The Lowdown on Low-Flow Anesthesia" on
page 42) during the maintenance phase of the anesthetic and employing waste anesthetic scavenging systems can reduce and prevent
anesthesia gases from impacting the environment.
Disposable anesthesia equipment, such as single-use laryngoscope
blades, is popular in cost-conscious facilities because it eliminates
cross-contamination risks and reprocessing's labor costs, according to
the ASA. However, the ASA also points out disposable devices contribute to the bulk of waste that ends up in landfills. The society suggests you consider the manufacturing and waste management impacts
of disposables before opting for single-use devices. Some reusable anesthesia devices are routinely and safely used in Europe, but the U.S. has
not yet made the transition.
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