Patient return electrodes—often called neutral electrodes or “grounding pads”—are receiving renewed attention in 2026.
The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) has updated its Guideline for Safe Use of Surgical Energy Devices, with expanded recommendations covering return electrodes, device selection, placement and injury prevention.
One notable change is terminology.
AORN now prefers the term “return electrode”, because it more accurately describes the function of the pad: safely completing the electrical circuit by returning current from the patient to the electrosurgical generator.
The updated guidance also places greater emphasis on electrode design and selection, including a preference for:
• Dual-foil conductive return electrodes
• Capacitive return electrodes when available
• Correct electrode placement
• Compatibility between the electrode and electrosurgical generator
• Secure cable connections and appropriate setup
These recommendations reflect an important principle in electrosurgery: The return electrode is not simply an accessory — it is an important part of the safety system.
The FDA continues to track adverse events involving electrosurgical patient return electrodes. Its database was updated on August 31, 2026, and includes reported events such as burns associated with this device category.
For manufacturers, this means that electrode design should consider more than conductivity alone.
Key factors include:
Contact area + current distribution + adhesion + material selection + cable connection + compatibility + correct application.
As electrosurgical technology continues to evolve, the return electrode deserves the same level of engineering attention as the active electrode and generator.
Safety starts with the complete electrical circuit.
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