LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. 1 define the types of currents related to the human body

2. 2 identify the amount of current related to physical sensation, pain, injury, and death

3. 3 define microshock and macroshock

4. 4 define the hazardous currents in clinical electrical equipment

5. 5 identify the basic AAMI recommended limits for currents in permanently wired devices and portable ones

6. 6 identify NFPA 99 code

7. 7 identify electrical receptacle requirements in a hospital (wiring and testing)

8. 8 define GFCI and LIM and identify the regulations set for their performance in the clinical environment

9. 9 define the patient care area

10. 10 identify the maximum duration of power interruption before emergency power is provided

11. 11 know NFPA 99 code requirements for extension cords and outlet strips

12. 12 identify the code requirement for the ground-to-chassis resistance measurement

13. 13 understand how NFPA 99 can be used to obtain maintenance manuals for equipment

14. 14 identify the applicability of Life Safety Code 101

Introduction

The most important responsibility of BMETs relates to patient safety. Ensuring the safe use of technology is a vital role of the BMET as part of the medical care team. Understanding the human body and its reaction to externally applied voltage and/or current is vital to patient safety.

Electrical shock

An injury related to electrical shock may occur in any environment, but there is a higher potential for electrical injury in the hospital because of the direct contact of patient or caregiver and equipment. In addition, there are a great many devices that may be associated with one patient.