SCOPING REVIEW ON MEASURES USED IN CURBING THE IMPACT OF EXPOSURE TO SURGICAL PLUMES ON THE RESPIRATORY HEALTH OF OPERATING THEATRE PERSONNEL

OYANA NWAKAEGO ELIZABETH

ABSTRACT

Surgical plumes, comprising gases, vapors, and particles generated during surgeries, pose a significant occupational hazard to healthcare workers in operating rooms. These plumes can contain carcinogens, pathogens, and other harmful elements, potentially leading to immediate irritations and long-term health risks. Therefore, effective preventive measures and management strategies are crucial to safeguard the well-being of operating theatre personnel.

This review followed the scoping review methodology using Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) method. Literature searches were conducted on the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. Four hundred and thirty-seven articles were retrieved. After removing the duplicate and screening only 47 which met the inclusion criteria were analyzed.

The reviewed studies spanning from 2018 to 2023 highlight a growing global concern regarding the health risks posed by surgical smoke exposure for operating theatre personnel. These studies underscore a range of adverse effects, from headaches to potential virus transmission, and emphasize the need for preventive measures. While challenges such as knowledge-practice gaps and equipment limitations persist, innovative solutions like smoke evacuation systems, local exhaust ventilation, and advanced technologies offer promising ways to mitigate the impacts of surgical smoke. Nurse executives and legislative changes also play a vital role in enhancing safety protocols.

In conclusion, these findings stress the multifaceted nature of the issue and the significance of adopting a comprehensive approach to protect the health and well-being of those working in operating rooms.

Keywords: Surgical plumes, Occupational hazard, Health risks, Preventive measures, surgical smoke exposure