If alcohol-based skin prep solutions are still present on the skin or drapes when laser or electrocautery is used,a fire could result.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alcohol is highly flammable and can ignite when exposed to heat or sparks during laser or electrocautery procedures. Therefore, it is essential to wait until the alcohol has completely dried before initiating any energy-based surgical intervention. Failure to do so can lead to a potentially disastrous surgical fire.

If Alcohol-Based Skin Prep Solutions Are Still Present on the Skin