By Alan Moretti
Is there a fine line between “Genius and Madness?” In many circles of scientific study,researchers have found that these “states” share the same gene. When pondering the supposed link of these “two mind states,” at first-look, they in no way appear to be relative to each other. However, further exploration can uncover similarities.
During the past few months, I have come upon some service related blog posts on social media and the accompanying pictures have sparked a flurry of interest and comments. Some thought, “WOW” now that is really creative thinking. Others commented more along the lines of “OMG – I can’t believe the stupidity!”
Judge as we may, my reaction quite honestly was a combination of both of these sentiments. The angle of one’s creative thought, that definitely when into their version of “triaging” and applying their “version” of a problem-solving solution, perhaps could be appreciated; though in the same context the “danger of looming disaster” could also be seen. What also struck me was the pathway of deviation in their problem-solving solutions with an apparent lack for regard to any formal industry procedure/best practice and for that matter following any established code or regulation! Yes, as “creative and resourceful” on the surface, these Rube Goldberg solutions spurred thousands of social media viewers to comment with mixed emotions. The “solutions” were undoubtedly very dangerous and just plain wrong!
The point and purpose of this month’s “Thought Leader” column is to bring awareness and importance to a very simple concept – fix the problem “correctly” the first time! Also, make sure the applied solution is safe to all who could encounter it. Follow established good practices and protocols of equipment design and, for goodness sake, do not allow the “low-cost factor” to deter one’s thinking from knowing what is right and deviate from ethical practices. As HTM service professionals, the challenges and demands we encounter in the patient care setting are laid out daily. These pressures and the expected responsibilities placed on HTM service professionals to be resourceful, cost efficient and timely in providing solutions in turn, enable the safe return of medical equipment to the clinical environment. Yes, that is the goal and responsibility of the HTM service professional but heed this advice – never allow yourself to stray down a path in which the solution is cloaked in “danger and bad service practices.” Always remember that the next person to need a piece of medical equipment that you are responsible for servicing could be a loved one or even yourself!
