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Electromagnetic interference with infusion pumps from GSM mobile phones
Giovanni Calcagnini1, Matteo Floris, Federica Censi
1Department of Technology and Health, Italian Institute of Health, Rome, Italy. giovanni.calcagnini@iss.it
Health Physics
|March 16, 2006
Summary
Mobile phones can interfere with medical infusion pumps, causing malfunctions. Lowering phone power and increasing distance reduces electromagnetic interference risks for critical care devices.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Device Safety
Background:
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI) poses a risk to critical medical devices.
- Previous studies show volumetric and syringe pumps are vulnerable to EMI from various sources.
- EMI risk is influenced by phone power, distance, and frequency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the risk of electromagnetic interference from GSM mobile phones on volumetric and syringe pumps.
- To determine the impact of varying distances and emitted powers on pump malfunction.
Main Methods:
- Testing was conducted on 8 volumetric pumps and 4 syringe pumps.
- Pumps were exposed to mobile phones at different distances and maximum output power.
- Identified the maximum power levels that did not induce malfunctions at zero distance.
Main Results:
- Malfunctions occurred in 6/8 volumetric pumps and 1/4 syringe pumps at distances up to 30 cm.
- Maximum non-malfunction power levels were 50 mW at 900 MHz and 2.5 mW at 1,800 MHz.
- Moderate to good base station coverage significantly reduced EMI risk in modern pumps.
Conclusions:
- GSM phones can induce electromagnetic interference in medical infusion pumps.
- Pump susceptibility varies with pump type, phone power, distance, and frequency.
- Mitigation strategies, including signal strength management, are crucial for patient safety.
