ABSTRACT
This article examines recently published studies exploring the impact of radio frequency identification (RFID) systems on the technology involved in patient care. The conclusions will be extrapolated to include insulin delivery devices. Background material will also be presented to support examination of the variables involved in electromagnetic fields and potential interference from these RFID systems.
Subject(s)
Diabetes Mellitus/drug therapy , Insulin Infusion Systems , Radio Frequency Identification Device/standards , Radio Waves/adverse effects , Equipment Failure , Equipment Safety , Humans , Patient CareABSTRACT
The use of radio frequency identification (RFID) equipment in the clinical setting has become prevalent. The exploration of the potential interactions between the equipment used to implement RFID and medical devices is vital to ensure safe and effective use of both the tracking technology and the patient care equipment. This study examines the effects of two common RFID antennas, Near-Field and Far-Field, and five general types of patient care equipment. Data were collected regarding the function of the patient care equipment in the fields of the antennas. No device performance alterations were observed.