Commentary on clinical applications of argon plasma coagulation in endoscopy. Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates

摘要

Having recently read the article, "Clinical Applications of Argon Plasma Coagulation in Endoscopy" by K. Jane Malick (Gastroenterology Nursing, 29, 386-393), I believe it is necessary to correct several inaccuracies that the author has presented in the Nursing Implications section.First, the author states that all "jewelry, including pierced ornaments, should be removed to avoid the risk of electrical injury." I certainly agree that the majority of jewelry should be left at home, not because of the potential of electrical injury, but rather for commonsense safekeeping.Electrosurgical injuries can occur from the active electrode, cables, capacitive coupling or radiofrequency leakage currents, the return electrode (often inappropriately called the grounding pad), or the monopolar current path leading to the return electrode. If an energized active electrode is placed on the patient outside the operative site, an unintended burn will occur whether the patient is wearing jewelry or not. Burns can occur even if the electrode is not energized but hot from a prolonged activation. It is.important that active electrodes not be placed on patients when not in use, but rather returned to a stand.