Electromagnetic interference with infusion pumps from GSM mobile phones.

Electromagnetic interference with critical medical care devices has been reported by various groups. Previous studies have demonstrated that volumetric and syringe pumps are susceptible to false alarm buzzing and blocking when exposed to various electromagnetic sources. The risk of electromagnetic interference depends on several factors such as the phone-emitted power, distance, and carrier frequency. The aim of this study was to assess the risk of GSM phone-induced electromagnetic interference with volumetric and syringe pumps, at various distances and emitted powers. Malfunctions were observed in 6 out of 8 volumetric pumps and in 1 out of 4 syringe pumps exposed to mobile phones at their maximum output, at distances up to 30 cm. The maximum power that did not induce any malfunction at zero distance was 50 mW at 900 MHz and 2.5 mW at 1,800 MHz. In state-of-the-art pumps, the presence of moderate-good base station coverage would significantly reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference.