An electrosurgery generator is a critical piece of equipment in any therapeutic endoscopy setting. This presentation is designed to give the gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy nurse or technician a working knowledge of the principles of high frequency electrical energy and its use in the gut. Pulmonary applications will be mentioned. Important safety issues, including aspects of grounding pad placement and accessory handling, will be highlighted. Participants will learn which outputs and watt settings are most commonly used for polypectomy and sphincterotomy, and why. Fundamentals of argon plasma coagulation will be addressed. This presentation is designed to be applicable to any therapeutic GI setting and to help sort out facts from "urban legends." The presenter uses animated graphics and clear analogies which make a sometimes complex topic understandable and clinically useful.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 33rd Annual Course, SGNA on a Mission: Exceeding Expectations. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.