The scope of medical device technology is broad, encompassing devices ranging from relatively simple, low-cost, disposable ECG
electrodes to highly complex and costly picture archiving and communications systems.
To effectively manage this wide array of health care technology, clinical engineers
must understand the rationale for medical device utilization, the constraints placed upon
the technology by the facility, the patient, the operator and the environment, and the
effect that those constraints have on device performance and safety.