As medical devices become more complex, the technical and software features built into them need to be fully understood in order to use them safely. Unfortunately manufacturers around the world are not making it easier by cooperating with regards to any form of standardization for various reasons. The reality is that Clinical and Nursing Staff are left to deal with the problem, and the technical competence within a unit or ward is going to have to be more than one or two staff members' responsibility going forward.
Technical Competence requires a minimum input of product specific information about a Device and Hands-On Experience using it, dealing with problems and learning from mistakes when setting up, setting alarm limits, pre use and calibration checks.
On-going product specific training is an option and developing a culture of using the Manufacturer's User Manual is the most accurate and cost effective way to achieve this. Initially most User Manuals are intimidating; however like most things in life once you've browsed through it a few times and know where to look for the information things tend to fall into place. You do not have to rewrite every manual or customize every setup procedure. Its time consuming, expensive and unnecessary.
We have put together a few questions which will give you an indication of your institution's current position:
- Does your hospital have a policy on User / Operators Manuals, its storage and access?
- Do staff in the wards and units know where the User Manuals are kept?
- Are they all kept in the same place and is there a User Manual for every device?
- Are they available to night and weekend staff?
- Do clinical educators and mentoring programs include product specific training and teach from current and manufacturer approved sources of information?
