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M
ark E. Bruley, CCE, investi-
gates medical mishaps of all
kinds for the ECRI Institute
in suburban Philadelphia, but he's known the world
over as an expert in surgical fires — both what
causes them and how to prevent them. We caught up with Mr. Bruley
for an update.
Q
Are there common misconceptions about surgical fires?
Mark Bruley:
What's largely unappreciated is how much of a
hazard the buildup of oxygen presents when it's coming from
an open source, like a nasal cannula or mask — how easy it is to
ignite cotton surgical towels, drapes and patient hair. At least 70% of
surgical fires involve oxygen-rich concentrations that are under the
O R F I R E S
"Even though most surgical fires last only about 4
or 5 seconds," says fire safety expert Mark Bruley,
CCE, "they change lives."
Surgical Fire
Q&A
MORE PROGRESS NEEDED
Surgical fires are becoming
less common, says Mark
E. Bruley, CCE, but
misunderstandings
still pervade.
Linda
Dowman-Simon,
RN
Jim Burger
Associate Editor
