Among the articles generating reader comments on the 24×7 website this week was a review of newly launched CBET study resources. “CBET Exam Prep Goes Virtual” generated interest from one reader seeking leads on BMET education and training opportunities in the Anchorage, Alaska region. To share resources, readers can post comments on the article.

Another reader appreciated hearing about mobile resources. “Very good and interesting for biomed techs to get this certification study guide online. I for one have been looking for such an opportunity,” said Christopher. “Keep it up and help the biomed tech community.”

Battery Balance

Mike Bassett’s account of effective battery management strategies garnered interest from one reader, who requested additional details about Drew Johnston’s custom-built battery testing station. Details of that system will be published in the May issue’s Service Solutions section.

But another reader, James C, raised concern that deviating from a manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule—even while using an evidence-based system—could put the hospital at risk in the event of a battery failure:

“This is an excellent article regarding a very important topic. I believe more emphasis should be placed, however, on the liability risk involved with manipulating a manufacturer’s replacement interval on life support devices. One wrongful death suit will wipe out hundreds of years of savings, and as the article indicates, even regular testing cannot guarantee that a battery won’t fail.”

Challenges for Biomeds

Another reader responded to an older article from our March issue, “How the Medical Equipment Management Landscape Will Change in 2015,” which outlined the effect on hospitals of two major shifts in the medical equipment maintenance management landscape: the December 2013 certification memo from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the related updates to the Environment of Care accreditation standards from The Joint Commission.

“It’s tough work for a Clinical Engineering Department but this adds more safety measures to all medical equipment used within the facility,” noted Garnet. “Complete inventory is a challenge, especially if you don’t have CMMS and limited staff. For portable medical equipment tracking it’s another challenge, RTLS will play a big role here.”