Helping Hands: Switches for Healthcare Applications
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We often talk about our components being used in audio visual, automotive and industrial applications, but we have customers in countless other industries. One field that we have gained increasing numbers of customers in in recent years is medical and healthcare applications.
In this article we’re exploring some of these applications in the healthcare sector and the switches that are best suited for the job.
Medical Lab Equipment
A variety of our customers use our switches in their medical lab equipment and tech. One example is Overture Life – a global leader in embryo genetic testing and assisted reproduction – who use our RGB anti-vandal switches in their product: the DaVitri. This device enables efficient and economical egg freezing, with improved embryo survival rates compared to alternative processes. You can read more about the great work that they are doing in our case study about them.
Ambulance Intercoms
Intercom systems are crucial in emergency vehicles such as ambulances, as they allow for clear communication between the driver in the front and the paramedics in the rear. Our custom metal push buttons can be used as on/off switches or specific controls within these intercom systems, alongside speakers, microphones, and other elements. The option to add connectors and wiring when ordering switches from RJS makes installation of these systems quick and easy.
Medical Lasers
Lasers are an innovation that has revolutionised healthcare, as they allow for targeted and precise treatment in various medical fields such as surgeries, dermatology, ophthalmology and beyond. They also offer a safer and less invasive alternative to more traditional procedures. These laser devices often feature SPST anti-vandal switches as power buttons; with ring, dot or custom symbol LED illumination to clearly indicate whether the machine is on or off.
Mobility Lifts
Lifts are an essential tool for wheelchair users and people who struggle with mobility to access public spaces easily, and are now becoming a popular choice for home mobility as well. Whilst ramps and stairlifts can be useful, platform and through-floor lifts offer much more independence to the user, as they are quicker and easier to operate. Plus, some designs have space for multiple people, such as carers or family members.
These lifts require simple push button controls to close the door and to operate them, as well as emergency stop buttons for safety. Key lock switches can also be added to prevent inappropriate use.
Hospital Communication Systems
Hospitals and other healthcare facilities require various communication and alarm systems to allow patients and residents to contact members of staff when there is no-one nearby or in case of an emergency. Some examples include; nurse call systems, panic buttons and intercom systems, as well as door exit alarms and refuge alarms. Similarly to other healthcare applications, anti-vandal switches are a common choice for call/mute buttons on these devices as they are IP rated and hard-wearing.
RJS Switches for Healthcare Applications
As you may have noticed, our range of anti-vandal push button switches are a popular choice for many healthcare applications. Every series of anti-vandals have different features, but their key benefits include being long-lasting and hard-wearing, with many styles having an IP65 or IP67 rating. IP rated switches allow for easier cleaning of medical instruments due to their water and particle resistance.
These buttons are also available with ring, dot or custom symbol LED illumination, and a variety of material finishes. You can learn more about customisation options here.
RJS1N1LP
Our ultra low profile, momentary switches with micro-travel and an SPST circuit
RJS1N1 / RJS1N1S
On/off switches with pin or screw-type terminals and SPST Normally Open circuit
RJSX02
SPDT or DPDT changeover switches with a COMMON pin between NO/NC circuit
RJSX03
1NO1NC changeover switches with isolated NO and NC circuits, available in 22mm – 40mm
Emergency Stop Buttons – also known as E-Stops – act as a crucial safety measure for machinery and devices in applications across industries. In the case of an emergency, these large, red push buttons are designed to immediately shut down the device when pressed.
In the healthcare industry, e-stops can be found in devices such as mobility lifts and other patient mobility devices, as well as on lab equipment and surgical/imaging equipment.
RJSPS16A Push Buttons
Our RJSPS15A plastic push buttons have a 16mm panel cut-out size, with full face LED illumination and an IP65 rating. These versatile and easy-to-use switches are available with round, square or rectangular actuators (both standard and mushroom style), and custom symbols/text can be added. For example, push buttons used in healthcare applications may feature an alarm symbol, up/down arrows, a door symbol, ‘STOP’ text, or a wide variety of other designs.
Key Lock Switches
Keylock switches are essentially rotary switches that require a key to operate, and often act as on/off switches for machinery or devices in applications where an extra level of security is needed.
In healthcare settings, keylocks are likely to be seen on devices that are used in public spaces, to prevent unwanted or accidental use/tampering by patients or untrained individuals. Some examples of these applications include; mobility lifts and equipment, patient monitoring & diagnostic equipment, and intercom/alarm systems (to reset them).
Summary
There are countless applications that come under the umbrella of healthcare, so while we can’t cover every way that our switches may be used, hopefully this article has given you an idea of some of the possibilities. Whether you make lab equipment, hospital intercoms, or anything in between, RJS Electronics is the place to come for reliable switches and components.
Interested in our products? Speak to us today!
How to place an order?
We operate Monday – Thursday (8 am – 5 pm) and Fridays (8 am – 4.30 pm)
Call us on +44 (0) 1234 213600 to speak to our Sales Engineers or e-mail us
on [email protected] alternatively, leave us a message using our online contact form.
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