Patient deaths have been associated with the accidental administration of concentrated phenol in medical imaging settings in Australia and overseas.
The Commission has developed a fact sheet on the storage and management of concentrated 80% phenol in Australian medical imaging service.
Preventing harm from phenol in medical imaging
Learn more about safe and appropriate use of phenol, including:
- Concentrated 80% phenol should only be used in health service organisations for the purpose of podiatric nail surgery.
- If phenol is to be used in medical imaging as a sclerosant, it must be pre-prepared to an appropriate dilution and in a ready-for-use presentation.
- Local policies, procedures and guidelines should specify which sclerosant is to be used for procedures and include instructions for use.
More information
Contact the Commission’s Advice Centre.