5. What action should be taken when flammable prep solutions are used? a. Drape immediately after application, b. Allow all solutions to fully dry before draping, c. Increase oxygen concentration, d. Cover pooled solution with towels

Answer

The correct answer is b. Allow all solutions to fully dry before draping. Flammable prep solutions, especially those containing alcohol, release vapors that can easily catch fire if exposed to an ignition source such as an electrosurgical unit (cautery) or laser. Allowing the solution to fully dry and any pooled liquids to evaporate or be removed before applying surgical drapes prevents vapors from becoming trapped underneath the drapes, thereby minimizing the risk of surgical fires.