Comparison of operating room lasers: uses, hazards, guidelines.

Although the discovery of laser light no longer can be termed recent, it took the medical community a long time to use its technology. Everyday, advances are being made in laser technology, and new applications are being discovered for this modality. Because lasers allow for the capture, control, and manipulation of energy, it is important for nurses to understand the basic biophysics of lasers. As lasers are being used in most surgical settings and specialties, it is important for the perioperative nurse to have a basic knowledge of each wave length, type of laser, indications for its use, and safety considerations.