Much of the damage to expensive diagnostic equipment in African healthcare facilities is a result of bites from rats, according to an article on the New Vision website.
Engineer Joseph Ssali told delegates at a conference in Kampala that rats are the worst enemies of the devices. He said the situation pointed to the dangers that exist when biomedical engineers are not consulted in the management of health equipment.
Ssali also pointed to cases where radiation equipment was installed next to antenatal rooms.
Conference participants also advocated for stronger regulation and standards for health equipment sent to the country as donations to ensure that they are safe and efficient.
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