The word Laser is an acronym: Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
A medical laser is a device that produces a focused beam of light with the properties:
These characteristics make lasers valuable tools in various medical procedures, including surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, and dentistry.
Laser use offers distinct benefits that have made it highly favoured among practitioners. Its directional precision enables precise tissue cutting and cauterisation without harming surrounding cells.
Medical lasers are classified into different classes based on their potential hazards. The classification system ranges from Class 1 (low-risk) to Class 4 (high-risk) lasers, with each class having specific safety requirements and precautions.
To ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare providers when using medical lasers, several precautions should be followed:
While medical lasers offer numerous benefits in healthcare, they also pose potential risks if not used properly to include:
It is essential to evaluate the potential hazards associated with each wavelength, system, delivery device, and application of medical lasers. Risk levels may vary among members of the team and individuals operating the equipment. Furthermore, the risk level can fluctuate based on the clinical application, including the delivery device, power parameters, and target tissues involved.
Perioperative pathway: Professional practice and enhancing patient care in surgery
The Perioperative Nursing Update Course has been developed by Medcast’s expert clinical educators to provide a comprehensive course suitable to experienced perioperative nurses and those new to perioperative nursing or looking to work in the field.
DebEvans, RN, BSc, DipAnaes&PostAnaesNsg, CritCareCert, DipProfStudies, Teach&AssessClin.PractCert, CertIV(TAE) has extensive background in Perioperative education and management. Deb has worked overseas and in several tertiary hospitals in Brisbane as an educator and manager including the Mater & The Wesley Hospital where she was awarded CEO Award for Innovation and Excellence and The Spirit of Wesley Staff Award for commitment to Quality and Safety.
Deb has developed blended education programs within the perioperative environment to include; Graduate transition programs; Clinical mandatory training; Corporate required learning & Point of Care SIMs; Perioperative competency development skills and speciality training programs. She recently worked for Montserrat Day Hospitals as the National Education & Training Manager and implemented a virtual orientation program, LMS & introduced speciality learning pathways. Deb has also been an ALS instructor & involved with a range of universities as a clinical facilitator and a lecturer at TAFE.
Become a member and get unlimited access to 100s of hours of premium education.
Learn moreDiabetic emergencies typically arise from extreme fluctuations in blood glucose levels. The two most common emergencies are hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia.
Join Dr Kate Annear as she discusses Gout with Professor Ric Day, a highly experienced rheumatologist and clinical pharmacologist. This podcast will cover why gout is important, and will also address some of the common misconceptions surrounding this condition as well as providing some practical advice on supporting better outcomes in the management of this condition.
This useful tool shows the aspects of the Veteran Health Check to incorporate into all relevant consultations with Veterans at any time after transition, including a useful autofill template.