State Legislators and Staff Get Firsthand Look at Smoke Evacuation

Publish Date: August 17, 2022

Medtronic’s Will Riseley demonstrates surgical smoke evacuation equipment.

The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) held its Annual Legislative Summit in Denver August 1-3, and attendees were treated to a demonstration on surgical smoke evacuation in the Exhibit Hall. AORN and Medtronic joined forces to exhibit at the annual conference and educate legislators and staff about surgical smoke, smoke evacuation, and the legislation being introduced across the country to protect OR staff and patients from harmful surgical smoke. Additionally, information was provided on AORN Go Clear Award™ winners who have taken the important step to eliminate surgical smoke in their facilities, regardless of whether or not there is a state law.

Legislators and staff were shocked to learn just how easy it can be to evacuate surgical smoke. A common misconception about surgical smoke evacuation is that it will require construction or an HVAC overhaul in a facility. Attendees were surprised to learn smoke evacuation could be achieved through a handheld device.

The NCSL Annual Legislative Summit was an incredible opportunity to demonstrate what AORN is asking for when we seek legislation at the state level. The conversations held at the conference will reap dividends throughout the 2023 state legislative sessions.

Want to get involved in surgical smoke evacuation advocacy in your state? Contact AORN government affairs to learn more about advocacy opportunities close to home.