LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. 1 list, describe, and characterize applicable codes of ethics, with patient safety and confidentiality as primary concerns

2. 2 list and describe commonly used test equipment

3. 3 list and describe safety universal precautions and personal safety measures

4. 4 list and describe the qualities of excellent customer service

Introduction

As part of the health care team, BMETs must strive to serve the staff and patients in the safest and most effective ways possible. This chapter reviews the various ethical codes that may apply to BMETs. In the health care workplace, test equipment is used to ensure patient safety. Precautions are employed to promote personal safety. In addition, serving staff and patients requires excellent customer service skills. These important facets of the BMET workplace are explored.

Applicable codes of ethics

No code of ethics specifically and exactly addresses the needs of hospital-based BMETs. Two codes, however, have parts that apply to BMETs. First, there is the Code of Ethics from the Biomedical Engineering Society (http://www.bmes.org). Even though this group is research oriented, it does have a section that applies to BMETs in the hospital environment.