Don’t overlook embedded technology
In the rush to deal with computer hardware and software-related year 2000 (Y2K) issues, the embedded technology problem often is overlooked, says Sandra K. Bell, an attorney and Y2K consultant in private practice in Atlanta.
Embedded technology, which can be found almost anywhere, refers to everything from a microchip to a complex, integrated hybrid system. This technology provides the intelligence associated with process control systems and frequently interfaces with application systems.
Medical equipment Bell says may not be Y2K compliant includes:
• pacemaker monitors;
• monitoring equipment, such as cardiac monitors;
• defibrillators;
• automatic medication dispensing equipment;
• enteral pumps;
• digital thermometers and scales;
• pulse oximeters.
In addition, Bell notes that many systems important to the comfort and safety of your patients may not be Y2K compliant. Those include:
• fire and burglar alarms;
• heating and cooling systems;
• thermostats;
• continuous power supplies;
• refrigeration systems;
• carbon monoxide monitoring systems;
• humidity/temperature monitoring systems.
"This problem may be even more critical because it will occur in the middle of winter where the potential for severe weather compounds problems associated with system failure," she says. (For information on how to test for Y2K compliance, see Case Management Advisor, Jan. 1999, pp. 1-9.)
(Editor’s note: Sandra K. Bell can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].)
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