A Delphi technique study to understand nurses' knowledge and concerns regarding surgical smoke

Abstract

BackgroundSurgical smoke (SS) occurs when heat-generating devices are used to cut and coagulate tissue and is an occupational health hazard about which leaders and legislators need to be informed. The purpose of this study was to determine expert consensus in relation to perioperative nurses’ (as a first group of operating room [OR] professionals) exposure to SS, mitigation practices, and health concerns from exposure in the United States. MethodsA two-round Delphi technique study via e-mail correspondence was conducted surveying perioperative nurses from a national nursing association. Perioperative nursing experts were queried with open-ended questions during Round 1. Round 2 consisted of surveying a larger sample of perioperative nurses about issues identified in Round 1. ResultsConsensus was reached by perioperative nurses that surgical smoke exposure was a major concern in their work environment. Nurses were concerned with their personal long-term health risks, as well as their surgical team members’ health. ConclusionsEvacuation devices for surgical smoke are readily available but not always used, which may put the health of surgical team members at risk, which many fear. Further research and education on using smoke evacuation devices and the health risks of SS may provide an opportunity for increased usage.