Managing medical technology

The development and impact of medical device technology has never been more apparent than in today's health care environment. Sophisticated procedures, techniques and risk management requirements have led to the continued development of all types of devices. Clinicians have also experienced an emphasis shift in practice whereby many medical device functions have moved from being one of supporting clinical practice to that of being an integral requirement in treatment delivery. The ability to reduce mortality is associated with the amount of technology available. Clinicians are at a stage that without the use of the many available devices procedures could not be carried out safely. Remarkable progress in improved outcomes from some conditions has been noted, particularly when severely ill patients are treated in well equipped and well managed units which have clear directorship and comprehensive management guidelines and protocols. This however, is a double-edged sword because as devices become more complex the associated risks also increase and as such also need to be managed. It is also clear that improved training is an integral part of any good risk management strategy. How many nurses or doctors in the UK today can claim that they have received comprehensive training on the devices they use, the author suspects not many. This paper emphasizes the need for health care organizations to develop a robust management strategy, which ensures medical devices are used safely and efficiently.