Some physical therapies such as phototherapy or saunas are delivered in special chambers or rooms. Certain features should be present to help ensure patient safety.
Parameter |
Feature |
electrical safety |
The patient and operator should not be able to touch a live electrical part (no shocks). There should be ground fault protection. |
protective shielding |
Lamps and/or heating elements should be shielded to prevent physical contact. In the event of damage to the unit the parts should be shielded from patient contact. |
patient viewing window |
With proper shielding if indicated |
hand rails and hand holds |
|
door and latches |
The doors should be easy for the patient to open from the inside. |
non-skid floor |
|
thermoregulation |
|
timer and automatic shut-offs |
To turn off chamber when time period completed or door opened |
emergency shut-off |
|
alarm device |
Accessible to patient and/or attendant. The alarm should be able to prompt an emergency response. |
warning signs |
Signs to indicate specific dangers. |
regular inspection and maintenance schedule |
|
Additional features:
(1) protective clothing or coverings, including eyeglasses for patient and attendant
(2) an attendant present during the session
Purpose: To evaluate the safety features of phototherapy or other specialized treatment chamber.
Objective: prevention
ICD-10: F31, F32, F33, F34, F38,