This question has been sent to RenalWEB by a Nurse-Manager:

We have been going round and round with Baxter Healthcare over this medical device alert. Our position is that the problem is inside the machine and installing a GFCI will not solve their problem and in fact
has the potental for creating interruptions to hemodialysis treatments. The ECRI does not recommend the installation of GFCI in the dialysis environment because it is "wet". Have you gotton feedback on this or more knowledge than me. This has turned out to be a battle between engineers.

Thank you for any help or information.

GFI's are mandatory at all of our units. We are a hospital based organization and have constructed or re-modeled 4 units in the past 5 years. GFI's are also part of our local building codes for the very reason that they are in a "wet" zone. GFI's offer protection to the patient, staff and machine
either thru voltage/amperage spikes or liquid
spill. Think it thru.....why are GFI's required on all hot tub, spa, and bathroom sink outlets. Thank you

GFI outlets are required in all wet locations. This is part of most state electrical codes. The potential for treatment interruptions is by far out-weighed by the safety of the staff and patient. GFIs not only protect equipment but personnel as well. You can check with your local electrician for the state regulations regarding GFIs in your area. Hope this helps.

quote:

Originally posted by Gary Peterson:
This question has been sent to RenalWEB by a Nurse-Manager:

We have been going round and round with Baxter Healthcare over this medical device alert. Our position is that the problem is inside the machine and installing a GFCI will not solve their problem and in fact
has the potental for creating interruptions to hemodialysis treatments. The ECRI does not recommend the installation of GFCI in the dialysis environment because it is "wet". Have you gotton feedback on this or more knowledge than me. This has turned out to be a battle between engineers.

Thank you for any help or information.

[This message has been edited by Bioman (edited 05-28-2004).]

I'm shocked that they do NOT recommend using GFI outlets. As the others stated, it is MANDATORY in every state I've worked in. I personally would be more concerned with the safety of the patient and staff than an 'interrupted treatment'. It will only interrupt when it has to.

quote:

Originally posted by Gary Peterson:
Our position is that the problem is inside the machine and installing a GFCI will not solve their problem and in fact
has the potental for creating interruptions to hemodialysis treatments. The ECRI does not recommend the installation of GFCI in the dialysis environment because it is "wet".

[This message has been edited by GTSCSS (edited 06-01-2004).]