What should you know about a monopolar electrosurgical unit?

In a monopolar circuit, the active tip delivers high-frequency electrical energy at the treatment site. Current then travels through the body to a broad return electrode, which completes the circuit. Depending on the selected mode and technique, the unit can cut, coagulate, or destroy a small area of tissue. Dermatology teams may use it for procedures such as electrosurgery or curettage and cautery. The device is different from bipolar equipment, in which the current travels between two closely spaced tips.

Tell the clinician about implanted electrical devices, metal near the treatment area, pregnancy, skin infection, reduced sensation, and medicines that affect bleeding or healing. The team should explain the target, anaesthetic, expected wound care, and smoke or heat precautions. Skin contact with the return electrode must be appropriate for the equipment and procedure. Do not apply creams, dressings, or antiseptics afterward unless the treating team recommends them; follow the wound-care instructions closely.

Contact the treating team for bleeding that will not settle with the advised pressure, increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, fever, or a wound that is not healing as expected. Seek urgent help for a serious burn, chest symptoms, collapse, or a device-related problem during treatment. New or worsening numbness around the site also deserves clinical review.

Ask which electrosurgical mode is planned, why monopolar energy is appropriate, how the return electrode will be positioned, and what alternatives exist. Tell the team the exact type of any implanted device and ask how the wound should be protected during healing.