Main description:

A first in patient safety!
Fatal accidents occur with medical devices every year. This is the first book for people who use medical equipment, rather than for engineers or technicians. It will help personnel within healthcare to avoid accidents by bridging the gap between the design principles and the user. The book encourages safe use of a wide range of equipment, from simple thermometers and blood-pressure cuffs to complex equipment such as pacemakers, ventilators and patient monitors.

Simple explanations of basic medical devices
Case histories of real-life accidents to highlight risk areas
Clear, attractive illustrations
"Tips" boxes identify particular problems
"Basic Facts" boxes supply fundamental information needed by all readers
"Technology" boxes provide more-advanced explanations for interested or experienced readers

Contents:

1. Safety in health care
2. Mechanics and safety
3. Electricity and safety
4. Gas, fire and heat
5. Measurement techniques
6. Measurement methods and values
7. Medical images
8. Ventilation
9. Parenteral administration of drugs
10. Artificial organs and stimulators
11. Tissues and calculi
12. Computers in health care
13. Responsibility
14. Checklists
Index