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SAFETY
TRIPLE THREAT
Elements of the Fire Triad
1. Oxidizer
• oxygen
• nitrous oxide
2. Ignition source (heat)
• electrocautery or
electrosurgical devices
• lasers
• heated probes
• drills
• burrs
• argon beam coagulation
• fiber-optic light cables
• defibrillator paddles or pads
3. Fuels
• alcohol-based
prepping solutions
• tracheal tubes
• sponges
• drapes and gowns
• gauze, dressings and ointments
• solutions containing
volatile compounds
• oxygen masks
• nasal cannula
• patient's hair
• GI tract gases
— Charles Cowles, MD
gen? Don't automatically assume they do. A relatively healthy patient
with no comorbidities may not need supplemental oxygen. If a patient
does need oxygen, how will it be delivered? Best practice is the use of
an air-oxygen blender to deliver O2 at a concentration of less than
30%.
Prepare and practice
Staff should know the locations of the nearest fire extinguishers,
fire alarm pull stations and gas cut-offs, and 2 ways out of every OR.
Each team member should be given an assigned task to complete in
the event of a fire. If they complete their assigned tasks, they should
assist whoever needs additional help. Ensure your team recognizes
the early signs of fire: flashes, unusual sounds such as pops or snaps,
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