Question

Which of the following is false when considering patient safety precautions when using lasers?

A) Noncombustible anesthetics should be used
B) Flammable antiseptic should be used for skin preparation
C) Patients exposed skin and mucous membranes outside the surgical field should be protected by a double layer of moistened surgical towels
D) When used, endotracheal tubes must be protected from direct and reflected laser beam irradiation to prevent catastrophic airway fires

Answer 1

The false statement is that flammable antiseptic should be used for skin preparation during laser procedures, which is incorrect since nonflammable alternatives are necessary to reduce fire risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

The false statement when considering patient safety precautions when using lasers is: B) Flammable antiseptic should be used for skin preparation. This is incorrect because flammable substances, including certain antiseptics, should be avoided due to the risk of fire when in proximity to the laser's heat during medical procedures. Instead, nonflammable skin preparation should be used. Additionally, noncombustible anesthetics are recommended over flammable anesthetics like diethyl ether to minimize risks. Protecting the patient's exposed skin and mucous membranes with moistened surgical towels and shielding endotracheal tubes from laser irradiation are indeed correct and essential precautions to prevent injuries and fires.