
10 Chapter 2 Safety
-Regularly check that the neutral electrode pad cable connections are intact.
-Poor neutral electrode pad contact may lead to low RF delivery and/or a system error condition.
• When setting HF output, the maximum output voltage should not exceed the rated accessory voltage.
• Peak rated accessory voltage is 400 V.
• Unauthorised cables and accessories may have an adverse effect on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
performance and safe operation.
• An accessory that is not manufactured by the manufacturer for use with the Potenza must not be attached to
the system to prevent potential injury and/or equipment damage. Rated voltage accessories must be used.
• It is recommended that monitoring electrodes are placed as far as possible from surgical electrodes when HF
surgical equipment and physiological monitoring equipment are used simultaneously on the same client.
• Operators must take care to avoid simultaneously touching any part where the current ows (i.e., fuse holder,
earth, power cord, rear connector, handpiece output section, etc.).
• The essential performance of medical electrical (ME) equipment and a description of what the operator can
expect if the essential performance is lost or degraded due to EM disturbances are below:
-Monitor icker
-Touchscreen error
-A warning that other cables and accessories may negatively affect EMC performance
-A statement that portable RF communications equipment including antennas, can affect medical
electrical equipment. The warning includes a use distance such as “… be used no closer than 30 cm
(12 in) to any part of the ME equipment, including cables specied by manufacturer”.
• For ME equipment and ME SYSTEMS that are classied as class A according to CISPR 11, the instructions for
use (IFU) include the following note:
-“The emissions characteristics of this equipment make it suitable for use in industrial areas and
hospitals (CISPR 11 class A). If it is used in a residential environment (for which CISPR 11 class
B is normally required), this equipment might not offer adequate protection to radio-frequency
communication services. The user might need to take mitigation measures, such as relocating or re
-orienting the equipment.”
• Strong static (15kV) electricity between the handpiece and the tip may cause some equipment to stop
functioning.
• Please refer to the spec sheet provided by the manufacturer, as the output may be different from the displayed
watt at the impedance that is out of the rated load (200).
2.5 Caution
• For Potenza tips, check the packaging for damage and a valid expiration date before use; never use the product if
the sterilised package is open or damaged or if it is past the printed expiration date.
• If the sterile package has been opened or damaged, discard the contents.
• Clients should be advised to be careful not to expose the treatment area to external stimulation for two days
post treatment.
• Clients should be advised to refrain from intense exercise, hot baths or saunas, which may cause an increase in
skin temperature, for ve days post treatment.