“13 Reasons Why”: Rationale and Preliminary Statistical Approach for Classifying Electromagnetic Disturbances in Healthcare Environments

Modern healthcare environments are complex and diverse with respect to electromagnetic disturbances (EMD). The amount of electrical equipment and equipment integration used during medical procedures poses intrinsic risks for patients. This paper briefs the rationale for classifying EMD sources and environments by using statistical models applied to electromagnetic field data measured in a real hospital in the Netherlands aiming to develop a model for the quantification of the electromagnetic interference risks. The preliminary results indicate the potential of applying statistical analysis models and methods for electromagnetic environment classification purposes.