Understanding electromagnetic safety
Tens of thousands of patients worldwide depend on Boston Scientific technology for life-changing implants, pain relief therapies, and cardiac monitoring devices designed to help you return to everyday activities. To stay safe in all situations, it's important to understand the facts about electromagnetic interference.
All electrical items and wireless signals create invisible electromagnetic fields that may temporarily affect how your device works. Boston Scientific devices are built with protective features to function safely around most household appliances and tools. However, some items should be kept at a safe distance from your implanted device to avoid interference. Following the recommended guidelines will help ensure your device continues working properly while you enjoy daily life.
Safety ratings
- Avoid use
- Use with caution
- Safe to use
Household tools that are not safe for use
These items are not safe for use if you have a cardiac monitor device:
Household tools that are safe to use at a distance (use with caution)
If you use any of the following items, it’s important to keep them the recommended distance away from your implanted device to avoid interaction. Items that should not be placed directly over your device, but are otherwise safe to use:
While portable MP3 players themselves should not interfere with your device, the headphones or earbuds should be stored at least 6 inches (15 cm) away from your device and you should avoid draping the headphones around your neck.
Items that should remain at least 6 inches (15 cm) away from your device:
It is safe to use headphones and earbuds, but you should refrain from draping them around your neck and from storing them in a breast or other shirt pocket.
Items that should remain at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from your device:
Items that should remain at least 24 inches (60 cm) away from your device:
Avoid leaning over running motors and alternators of a running vehicle. Alternators create large magnetic fields that can affect your implanted device. However, the distance required to drive or ride in a vehicle is safe.
Household tools that are safe under normal use:
Consult with your doctor before using a hot tub. While a hot tub will not harm your implanted device, your medical condition may not permit this activity.
PDAs that also function as cell phones should be kept at least 6 inches away from your CRT-P or CRT-D.
Using mobile phones safely
Your mobile phone is a source of EMI and could affect your cardiac monitoring device. This interaction is temporary, and moving the phone away from your device will return it to proper function. To reduce the chance of interaction, follow these precautions:
Maintain a distance of at least 6 inches (15 cm) between the mobile phone and your device. If the phone transmits more than 3 watts, increase the distance to 12 inches (30 cm).
Hold the mobile phone to your ear on the opposite side of your body from your device.
Do not carry a mobile phone in a breast pocket or on a belt if that places the phone within 6 inches (15 cm) of your device.
These precautions apply only to mobile phones, not to household cordless phones. However, you should avoid placing your household cordless phone receiver directly over your device.
