Sammanfattning
Are health care personnel adequately protected against infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) when caring for patients who undergo treatment of their papillomas simultaneously with jet ventilation" During such treatments discussion in the operating theatre often focuses on the adequa-cy of protection. This issue was the subject of a written assignment forming part of a operations theatre nursing course.
A literature search showed that DNA from HPV become airborne during laser treatment, and that the smoke from laser treatment can transmit infection. We found no evidence-based literature concerning protective measures during concomitant use jet ventilation, or guidelines for protection of staff in connection with laser treatment of papillomas - either locally or nationally.
Instructions for staff protection during laser treatment of jet-ventilated patients are being prepared based on a series of well-founded safety precautions from the literature. The work has resulted in a revision of the infection control guidelines. The intention is to provide an improved physical and psychological working environment.