Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
within the radiology suite. Despite intensive probing
of all devices within the suite, including video
monitors, computers, and control systems, and exami-
nation of the system involved in the TMJ procedure
during which these artifacts most often appeared, the
source could not be attributed to EMI.
A detailed report was filed with the radiology de-
partment. The manufacturer's representative was called
in. Based on the inconclusive findings, a greater in-depth
analysis of the problem was conducted by the representative,
the clinical engineer, and technicians from the bio-
medical engineering department radiology group. During
the analysis, the investigators discovered a disconnected
bonding strap within the camera head. Reconnecting this
strap improved the performance of the system and re-
duced the artifact.
This incident further illustrates the benefits of co-
operation to resolve interference issues,
of the sources of interference. It also demonstrates the
effectiveness of a proactive, competent, and supported
EMI program in the clinical environment. Placing blame
rarely mitigates risks.
Variability: a demonstration
of the problem
Variability in the repeat cause and effect (culprit/victim)
device relationship poses a problem when instituting
proactive programs designed to reduce the risks attrib-
utable to EMI with the support of management.
In 1996, at the request of NHK (Japan Educational
Television), the television services group of the bio-
medical engineering department at the Texas Children's
Hospital in Houston was asked contribute a segment to
an educational program about EMI issues in the hospital
irrespective
EDUCATION
MANDATED TRAINING
(Hospital Policy)
INFORMATION
SHARING
TRAINING
"Using Your Radio
SAFELY
In the
Clinical Environment"
BIOMEDICAL
ENGINEERING
STAFF
MEDICAL /
PATIENT SUPPORT
STAFF
SEMINARS
WORKSHOPS
PUBLICATIONS
"GHOSTHUNTING"
TESTS AND
MEASUREMENTS
Hospital
Personnel
OBSERVING
REPORTING
Contractors
SECURITY
PLANT ENGINEERING
GUEST SERVICES
OTHERS
Figure 5.6-2 Flow diagram of hospital educational program in electromagnetic compatibility and interference relating to medical device
technologies.
