Course Title: Clinical Engineering 1
Course Overview:
Clinical Engineering 1 is an introductory course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the principles, practices, and responsibilities of clinical engineers within healthcare settings. This course covers essential topics related to medical equipment management, safety standards, regulatory compliance, and risk management. Through lectures, case studies, and hands-on activities, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to support the safe and effective use of medical technology in clinical environments.
Course Objectives:
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Introduction to Clinical Engineering: Explore the role and scope of clinical engineering in healthcare systems. Understand the responsibilities of clinical engineers in managing medical equipment, ensuring patient safety, and supporting healthcare professionals.
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Medical Equipment Management: Learn principles and best practices for the acquisition, maintenance, and disposal of medical equipment. Topics include inventory management, asset tracking, preventive maintenance, and equipment lifecycle management.
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Regulatory Compliance and Standards: Gain an understanding of regulatory requirements and industry standards governing medical devices and equipment. Explore regulations such as FDA requirements, ISO standards, and healthcare facility accreditation criteria.
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Biomedical Instrumentation: Study the principles of biomedical instrumentation and medical device technology. Learn about the operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and safety considerations of common medical devices and equipment.
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Clinical Risk Management: Explore strategies for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with medical technology in clinical settings. Topics include incident reporting, root cause analysis, failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), and quality improvement initiatives.
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Clinical Engineering Ethics and Professionalism: Discuss ethical considerations and professional responsibilities relevant to clinical engineering practice. Topics may include patient confidentiality, conflicts of interest, professional conduct, and professional development opportunities.
Assessment Methods:
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Assignments and Case Studies: Complete individual and group assignments that require analysis of real-world scenarios, application of course concepts, and development of solutions to clinical engineering challenges.
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Examinations: Take quizzes and exams to assess comprehension of course material, including regulatory requirements, equipment management principles, and safety standards.
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Practical Exercises: Participate in hands-on activities, laboratory sessions, or simulation exercises to gain experience with medical equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
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Presentations: Deliver presentations on selected topics related to clinical engineering, regulatory compliance, or risk management to demonstrate communication and presentation skills.
Prerequisites:
This course is open to students pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering, clinical engineering, or a related field. Prior coursework in engineering principles, biology, and healthcare systems is recommended but not required.
Textbooks:
- "Clinical Engineering Handbook" by Joseph Dyro
- "Medical Instrumentation: Application and Design" by John G. Webster
- Additional readings and resources will be provided throughout the course.
- Teacher: MARTHA ONKOBA