Preventing Surgical Fires During High Risk Surgeries: A CRNA Quality Improvement Project

Abstract

Although uncommon, operating room fires may occur during surgical procedures, especially high-risk procedures above the xiphoid process, and place patients at risk for preventable injuries and death. The fire triad, also referred to as the fire triangle, contains three elements – fuel, ignition, and oxygen source. Of those, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) play a key role in controlling the oxygen source. The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice project was to develop, implement, and evaluate the perceived adequacy of a perioperative fire prevention guide made specifically for CRNAs and designed to improve fire prevention practices in a medical facility located in southeastern North Carolina. Five CRNA participants were given the tool in an electronic format, as well as an informational video with instructions, to utilize in clinical practice for two weeks. Analysis of pre- and post-assessment questionnaire responses indicated an improvement in participants’ confidence and on knowledge regarding perioperative fire prevention, improvement on overall confidence in their ability to identify high-risk procedures, and that the majority felt an easily accessible guide would provide support in decision making.