Medical Laser Safety Officers also benefit from certification in their field. As the medical industry continues growing at a fast pace, a BLS certification allows MLSOs to remain up-to-date with their laser safety knowledge and to uphold the highest standard of laser safety.
CMLSO Richard Gama recognizes the positive impact his BLS certification has had on his career. Beginning his work with lasers as a Surgical Technologist more than 30 years ago, he later became a health care laser system operator and has continued his work with numerous laser systems for varying medical and surgical procedures. After years of operating room experience and laser expertise, Richard was asked to become LSO for Universal Hospital Services, Inc. (UHS) formerly PRI Medical Technologies, Inc. With his certification, Richard established the company’s laser safety program and policies. As a result of his certification, Richard has repeatedly faced and conquered the challenges that arise from the constantly-advancing laser technology, the continuous training and educating of health care personnel to meet today’s standards, and the constant dispelling of antiquated myths about safety and laser program compliance. The knowledge he has gained throughout his career, as well as through his BLS certification, has allowed him to improve staff knowledge and change the laser safety culture at UHS and many health care facilities throughout the country.
The lack of understanding about lasers and their potential hazards increases the importance of CMLSOs, as they bring a level of assurance to patients who are seeking an optimal level of care. Because of the hazardous nature of lasers, they must be handled by individuals with an extensive knowledge of laser safety in order to prevent injuries. CMLSO Raphael Darvish learned of the dangers associated with lasers when he sustained a non-permanent eye injury at his medical practice in California. After this experience, he made laser safety an integral part of his practice. Earning his certification has not only allowed Raphael to better serve his staff and patients, but has also established him as a dedicated provider and a trusted expert in laser safety. Raphael now educates colleagues and clients on the dangers involved in the use of lasers and continues promoting laser safety in an industry where business owners would often rather spend time and money on promoting their business rather than on the pursuit of laser safety certification.
Overall, CLSOs and CMLSOs report that BLS certification has greatly improved their success. BLS Executive Director, Barbara Sams, agrees. “BLS certification is an elevation of status for the Laser Safety Officer; it shows that the individual has the specific knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the job of LSO,” says Sams. “It demonstrates the individual’s commitment to the job and validates the employer’s dedication to a safe working environment.”
CMLSOs’ Best Practices in Medical Laser Safety
A Must Have For All Medical Laser Personnel!
The Laser Institute of America has assembled the expert knowledge of leading certified medical laser safety officers in a new 11-chapter book. The book compiles the latest knowledge about establishing a medical laser safety program, including laser safety regulations, how to control and evaluate such programs, and the duties of LSOs. It also covers:
· Beam and non-beam hazards · Factors that determine laser-tissue interaction · Importance of safety audits · Includes inspection checklist, laser inventory sheet, laser procedure record and laser safety audit forms
· Includes Medical Laser Safety Education Training Module on CD ROM
www.lia.org/store |
1.800.34.LASER
www.lia.org 1.800.34.LASER 9
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