Operator Safety; Repetitive Strain Injury; Foot Switch Warning - Philips EPIQ 7 User Manual

Operator Safety

Safety
Operator Safety
The following issues and situations can affect operator safety when you are using an ultrasound
system.

Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive ultrasound scanning has been associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and
related musculoskeletal problems. Some investigators have looked at a large population of
sonographers with different types of equipment. An article, with feedback from a smaller
geographical area, makes the following recommendations:
• Maintain your joints in optimum positions with a balanced posture while scanning.
• Allow frequent breaks to give soft tissue a chance to recuperate from awkward positions
and repetitive movement.
• Avoid gripping the transducer with excessive force.
Repetitive Strain References
Pike, I., et al. "Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Related Work and Personal Factors
Among Diagnostic Medical Sonographers." Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, Vol. 13,
No. 5: 219-227, September 1997.
Necas, M. "Musculoskeletal Symptomatology and Repetitive Strain Injuries in Diagnostic
Medical Sonographer." Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, 266-227, November/
December 1996.

Foot Switch Warning

WARNING
The foot switch is not intended for use in wet locations, such as emergency rooms and
operating theaters.
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