May 14 - 20 is National Biomedical and Clinical Engineering Week. This is a week to recognize the contributions of the Biomedical Engineers, Clinical Engineers, Biomedical Engineering Technicians and Technologists who make valuable contributions to healthcare institutions in the areas of patient safety, research and development, technology management, equipment services, cost savings, problem solving, planning and support. They work to assemble, install, repair, calibrate, and inspect biomedical equipment and devices to ensure that it meets standards.
Shawky is Biomedical Engineering Technologist, who works at an urban acute care facility. He holds a Biomedical Engineering Technology Diploma. During a typical day, Shawky completes preventative maintenance to ensure the function and safety of equipment used for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring, investigates medical equipment failures, troubleshoots and repairs medical equipment, and provides advise about the purchase and installation of new equipment. He also updates the software required for medical equipment.
Shawky has a background in Physics and Engineering, he particularly loves electronics in general, and fixing electronics. He is able to combine his technical skills with his passion for electronics, knowing that his work helps to treat patients or to diagnose their medical conditions. Doctors, nurses, and diagnostic professionals rely on using safe and functional medical equipment. Patients depend on Shawky and his co-workers to ensure that the medical equipment does not harm them, or even risk death in the event of a malfunction. Shawky commented that it is a great feeling to know that his work is critical in ensuring that the rest of the healthcare team can do their job efficiently and effectively.
We asked Shawky about his co-workers. His workplace is very friendly and cooperative, with everyone willing to pitch in and help when needed to get the job done. Throughout the pandemic, they have missed the social aspects of gathering at lunch, but they know that they are all in this together.
The work of the people in Biomedical and Clinical Engineering is often unseen, but it is critically important to patient care and safety. Please join us in thanking Shawky and his co-workers who keep the vital medical equipment and devices inspected, maintained, and repaired, benefiting all patients who need them during their care and treatment.