New case study - Using non-medical equipment in a medical context
This case study describes a situation in which it was determined that a non-medical equipment could safely be used in a medical context.
Were the reasons justifiable?
Was the process acceptable?
Was there benefit to the patients?
Let us know what you think.
Justin
- By Justin McCarthy
- 10th Feb 2017
- 2
- Case Study
John Amoore said...7 years ago / Reply
Yes, in the real world of Healthcare Technology Management the clinical engineer will from time to time come across decisions to be made that do not fit neatly into established practice. The dilemma faced is clear: continue to use the unsatisfactory and more expensive approved devices or check whether an alternative device that has not been designed specifically for medical use can be used? But how to decide?
The Case Study illustrates a number of important points:
1. Having in place a structured systematic process for investigating the dilemma
2. The structure must be approved by the healthcare organization - a useful model being the Medical Device Committee
3. The structure must include the necessary multi-disciplinary groups; technical considerations are only part of the story
4. Investigations must use available evidence - note the reference to Standards in the Case Study
5. The reasons for decisions must be documented and approved
Justin McCarthy said...7 years ago / Reply
John,
Yes. These are the key points that need to be thought through.