Electrosurgery uses the alternating current flow through the patient’s tissues in order to achieve the desired clinical effect: cutting and coagulation. Electrosurgical units are used in 80% of surgical procedures. They constitute the basic equipment of operating rooms, treatment rooms, endoscopic operating rooms and emergency departments. The article presents basic principles of operation of electrosurgical equipment, which is an important issue in the work of nurses. After reading the article, you will know the rules of safe use of electrosurgical units, and most importantly, how to apply neutral electrodes in order to minimize the risk of patient’s burns.