Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which class of lasers is most used in surgical procedures?

1. Class 1

2. Class 2

3. Class 3

4. Class 4

The correct answer is: Class 4

The most commonly used class of lasers in surgical procedures is Class 4. Class 4 lasers are high-power lasers that can cause significant thermal effects in tissue, making them particularly useful in various surgical applications. They are capable of cutting and coagulating tissue effectively, which is essential in many types of surgeries, including those in ophthalmology, dermatology, and oncology. Class 4 lasers also have safety implications; they require precautions due to the potential for causing burns or eye damage to both patients and healthcare providers if used improperly. These safety considerations are critical in a clinical setting, aligning with healthcare safety protocols that professionals are trained to follow. In contrast, other classes of lasers either do not have sufficient power for surgical applications or are primarily designed for different uses. For example, Class 1 and Class 2 lasers are generally low-powered and mostly used in applications like laser pointers or basic alignment tools, which do not involve invasive procedures. Class 3 lasers fall into a mid-range power category but still lack the necessary capabilities for effective surgical use compared to Class 4 lasers. Thus, Class 4 lasers stand out as the primary choice for surgical interventions.