A question and concern I regularly hear about is how to determine who handles what piece of equipment—clinical/biomeical engineering or IT? Can you imagine how confusing it must be for the clinicians when they have a service question? Coming up in the November issue we'll publish an article that offers ways to communicate better—between employees, managers, and customers.

In the article, Henry (Hank) Stankiewicz, MS, chief clinical engineer, Veterans Integrated Service Network 1 (VISN 1) of the Department of Veterans Affairs, offered a tip on this topic that makes good sense, and with 60 employees spread out over 11 campuses in six New England states, he knows what he's talking about. Here's an excerpt from the article, written by Carol Daus:

Stankiewicz notes that as equipment has become more computerized, employees throughout his hospitals have become confused about whether a device is serviced by clinical engineering or IT. He solved this problem by developing eye-catching labels that are now placed on all devices, indicating who to call for repairs and servicing.  

We'd love to hear your comments on this. Also, do you have an idea—or best practice—that's worked? Be sure to let me know about it. 

I'd like to welcome Dara McLain again as our guest blogger. What's great is that she's not only willing to write a couple of guest blogs, but she's also open to speaking at your biomed association - time permitting of course. Thank you Dara and to all of you who have embraced the blog - we appreciate it! Read on for Dara's latest.

By Dara McLain: I understand the frustration involved when it comes to Electromagnetic Compatibility. It’s what I do for a living. No story of interference ever surprises me. I’ve been in thousands of healthcare environments, all unique, and still see something new every day. Calm and logical investigation is how I get through them. Sadly, 90% of them can be avoided through simple management.

Manufacturers are VERY concerned about immunity and emissions of any device they make, and the devices that might be used with them. If they weren’t, they would lose business faster than they could sell. Many test their products beyond IEC standards in an effort to beat the odds of encountering something new. Some only test right up to current standards set by IEC. Some will take ownership of leakage or immunity problems and take the necessary steps to correct it, if possible, even when the user has not, or cannot, follow practical guidelines, or exceptions, or the device meets test standards already. Everyone makes mistakes, and correcting one is a credit to them. Going above and beyond is the mark of a manufacturer who practices due diligence.

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