Mobile Phones Can Interfere with Critical Care Equipment
Author Information
Author(s): Erik Jan van Lieshout, Sabine N van der Veer, Reinout Hensbroek, Johanna C Korevaar, Margreeth B Vroom, Marcus J Schultz
Primary Institution: Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam
Hypothesis
The study aims to assess and classify incidents of electromagnetic interference (EMI) by second-generation and third-generation mobile phones on critical care medical equipment.
Conclusion
Critical care equipment is vulnerable to EMI by new-generation wireless telecommunication technologies with median distances of about 3 cm.
Supporting Evidence
- 43% of the tested medical devices experienced EMI incidents.
- 33% of the incidents were classified as hazardous.
- The GPRS-1 signal caused the most EMI incidents at 41%.
Takeaway
Mobile phones can mess with hospital machines, and it's best to keep them at least 1 meter away to stay safe.
Methodology
EMI was assessed using two GPRS signals and one UMTS signal on 61 medical devices under controlled conditions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited selection of medical equipment and the controlled testing environment.
Limitations
The study's results apply only to the tested devices and the specific test conditions used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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