Mobile phones in the hospital--past, present and future.
The phenomenon of electromagnetic interference by mobile phones is real and potentially clinically significant. This has been recognised by the Department of Health and the Medical Devices Agency, leading to bans on phone use in hospitals. Current evidence suggests that mobile phones can cause malfunction of medical equipment, but only when used in close proximity. Allowing phone use in non-patient care areas and improving staff education may improve compliance with hospital policies.
Klein
A A
AA
Cardiovascular Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4, Canada. andrew.klein@uhn.on.ca
Djaiani
G N
GN
D040421:Cell Phone; D017147:Defibrillators, Implantable; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004868:Equipment Failure; D006761:Hospitals; D010138:Pacemaker, Artificial; D012122:Ventilators, Mechanical