Dangerous Waste Gases
The waste anesthetic gases and vapors of concern include the following:
- nitrous oxide
Anesthetic gases in the surgical suite can cause several health effects.
- halogenated agents (vapors)
- halothane
- enflurane
- isoflurane
- desflurane
Some potential effects of exposure to waste anesthetic gases are:
- nausea
- dizziness
- headaches
- fatigue
- irritability
- sterility
- miscarriages
- birth defects
- cancer
- liver and kidney disease among operating room staff
Employers and employees should be aware of the potential effects and be advised to take appropriate precautions.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-2. What is a potential health effect of exposure to anesthetic gases?
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