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NFPA amends ruling, specifically allows alcohol-based preps

Infection Control Monitor, August 12, 2005

The National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Standards Council voted on July 29 to amend NFPA 99, Healthcare Facilities, to more explicitly allow alcohol-based surgical preps.

The amendment recognizes the clinical advantages of using alcohol-based preps, but says that use must be balanced against fire safety concerns during electosurgical and laser procedures. Precautions that staff must take include allowing preps to dry completely before a procedure and calling "time outs" to make sure conditions are safe before using heat-based surgical tools.

The amendment becomes effective on August 18 for the 2005 edition of NFPA 99. To read the full amendment, click here.

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