Guidance article: cellular telephones and radio transmitters--interference with clinical equipment

It has long been recognized that devices emitting radio frequencies can interfere with the operation of clinical and other electronic equipment. A number of Health Devices System members have called us in recent months to ask about the risks of using cellular telephones in hospitals, and several others have also raised similar questions in the Healthcare Technology conference area of ECRINet, our online communication service. While some of those making inquiries have been alarmed by the publicity surrounding the possible health hazards of using cellular telephones--a specter that is not supported by currently available evidence or theoretical considerations--the focus of concern is generally whether such telephones can affect the operation of patient care devices. Evidence indicates that operating cellular telephones and radio transmitters near certain clinical equipment presents the risk of interrupting patient care, although much work remains to be done to clearly define that risk. Nevertheless, we recognize the benefit of bringing to the attention of our readers some of the experiences that are being reported. We hope that the following questions and answers will increase awareness of the possible risks of using such equipment, as well as promote the exchange of information to permit a more rapid assessment of the degree of risk and the steps necessary to avert problems.