With the increasing use of advanced technology in hospitals comes an increasing risk of harm from misuse, according to a blog on the Forbes website.
The ECRI Institute lists the following among the top 10 technology hazards for 2015.
• Patient-handling device use errors and device failures
Devices, such as lifts, sliding boards and specially designed chairs, toilets, mattresses and stretchers can reduce the strain on workers. But they carry their own risks in cases of improper use or mechanical failure. Regular maintenance of the equipment, training in its proper use and paying attention to weight-bearing limits are among the best solutions.
• Insufficient protections for medical devices and systems
Electronic medical equipment is vulnerable to malicious hacks, malware or invasions of privacy. These risks can be mitigated through IT best practices such as network firewalls, strong passwords and software patches.
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