FDA updates recommendations to reduce surgical fires

Editor's Note

The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) on June 5 updated its Safety Communication: “Recommendations to Reduce Surgical Fires and Related Patient Injury.”

Among the recommendations:

• Perform a fire risk assessment before each surgical procedure.
• Encourage communication among anesthesia personnel, surgeons, and OR staff.
• Practice safe use and administration of oxygen.
• Ensure safe use of devices and items that may serve as an ignition source and fuel source.
• Plan how to manage a fire.

The FDA is working with the Joint Commission and others to increase awareness of the risks of surgical fires.