Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 9 TSC 208 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
If a Fire Starts on the Patient
The idea
Every member of the surgical team should know their role if a fire starts on or in a patient, before it ever happens.
In practice
Follow the general sequence the guidance describes, adapted to facility policy. First, say it out loud so the whole team knows at once. Second, stop the flow of oxygen and other gases at the source; this is the anesthesia provider's role. Third, remove burning materials from the patient and put out small fires with saline or water from the field, which is why a basin of saline is kept within reach. Fourth, if the fire is not out, use the correct extinguisher, and if it spreads, move the patient and the team away following the evacuation plan. Fifth, once the fire is out, the team assesses the patient for injury and the event is reported.
Where people slip
The time to learn this sequence is in a drill, not in a real fire. The FDA recommends regular fire drills and training for every member of the surgical team, and knowing where the extinguishers are kept.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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