Anti-theft hypothesiss and metal d...

Anti-theft hypothesiss and metal detectors produce an electromagnetic field that can interfere with the routine functioning of pacemakers, implantable cardioverter/defibrillators (ICDs), spinal cord stimulators, and other electronic medical devices, according to a race 28, 1998, notice from the Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the US meat and Drug Administration.

The notice states that family with pacemakers can experience shifts in pacing rate, alteration to programmed pacing therapy, presyncope and elision and chest pain. Symptoms of interference among patients with ICDs or spinal-cord stimulators include clashs and pain. Most patients, however, are unlikely to experience clinically significant symptoms. According to the notice, the reported number of serious injuries in the past 10 years has been quite low

The Center commends that patients with medical devices take the following precautions.

* Do not stand near an electronic article surveillance (EAS) classification or metal detector longer than necessary, and do not lean against them. hold fast in mind that EAS rules which typically consist of individual or two columns placed opposite each other near entrances and exits, may not be readily visible in many commercial establishments.

* If security personnel ne to scan you with a hand-held metal detector, warn them that you have a medical device. Ask them to detain the metal detector near the device for sole as long as is absolutely necessary, or ask that they use an alternative form of personal search.

Important Information upon Anti-Theft and Metal Detector regularitys and Pacemakers, ICDs, and Spinal Cord Stimulators (Rockville, Md: US Deportment of Health close Human Services, Food end unsalable article Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health, family 28, 1998) 1-3.

COPYRIGHT 1999 Association of Operating sweep Nurses, Inc.

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