The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency in London issued updated guidance on the use of mobile phones in hospitals.
The report reinforces previous guidance that a total ban on mobile phones in hospitals is not necessary. It does, however, recommend that hospitals take some steps to offset potential risks of mobile-phone use in hospitals.
The recommendations advise hospitals to identify staff to manage how mobile technology is used and identify interference risks, consider designating areas where people can use mobile phones, and identifying wireless systems that pose a low interference risk that can be issued to hospital personnel.
“Mobile communication technology is particularly fast moving, resulting in a wider range of communication equipment becoming available,” said professor Kent Woods, chief executive of the MHRA. “We have recognized that hospitals need to be updated and advised as to what action to take in light of these advances. Some mobile devices can cause interference with critical medical equipment, and it is important these are turned off where a risk exists.
“However, there is no reason why mobile technology can’t be used in designated areas of hospitals where there is little or no risk of interference with critical medical equipment.”
