Measurements of electromagnetic fields radiated from communication equipment and of environmental electromagnetic noise: impact on the use of communication equipment within the hospital.

The increasing use of all types of cellular telephones requires the formulation of new standards to ensure the immunity of electronic medical equipment to electromagnetic radiation. It will be many years before all hospital medical equipment conforms to new and higher standards. Until that time, the medical, security, maintenance, and other staff will need to be ever vigilant regarding restrictions on the use of wireless equipment within the hospital, to prevent potential danger to the lives of the patients. A comprehensive hospital policy must be formulated to reduce risks to patients from equipment susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Such an aim should address the following needs: To devise a uniform policy for the instruction of hospital staff, visitors, and patients, thereby reducing confusion regarding the use of cellular telephones, beepers, and portable transceivers. To implement a policy that avoids unwarranted restrictions but does not ignore statistical evidence regarding potential EMI problems. To allow comparison, with other clinical facilities, of the benefits derived from such a policy.