We rely on membrane switch suppliers to create the technological components we use on a daily basis. Defined by ASTM International, this “momentary switch device in which at least one contract is on (or made of) a flexible substrate,” the membrane switch is a constant presence in our lives. From your microwave to your hot tub, you can find membrane switches just about everywhere. But while the membrane switch undoubtedly provides us with convenience and speed no matter the application, it can also be optimal for situations in which health and safety are a top priority. Let’s take a closer look at how membrane switch suppliers are keeping patients in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and home care situations comfortable and safe.
How Membrane Switches Are Used in Medical Applications
Many types of modern healthcare equipment use membrane switches to function properly. This equipment includes infusion pumps, hospital bed control panels, ultrasound components, X-Ray and MRI machines, dialysis pumps, and many other products medical staff need to deliver fluids and medications or obtain necessary information. Chances are that if a medical professional needs to push a button on a piece of equipment, they’re able to do so thanks to custom membrane switches developed for those machines.
Why the Membrane Switch Design is Ideal For Healthcare Environments
Now that you know to look for membrane switches in these settings, you probably won’t be able to “unsee” them. But do you know why these switches are so prevalent?
Firstly, membrane switches are primed for cleanliness — a must for medical situations. Not only are these panels easy to sanitize without worry of component damage (due to their shielding qualities), but there are even antimicrobial films that have been developed for these applications. In other words: the membrane switch itself can actually inhibit or kill bacteria when it comes into contact with it. This means the membrane switch can improve staff and patient health and safety in more ways than one.
Second, membrane switches provide a means to reduce errors. They offer tactile feedback, meaning the user is able to physically “feel” the reaction of the actions they take when interacting with the switch. In such a precise field, it’s essential for medical staff to receive this feedback in order to provide consistent and accurate patient care.
And of course, the fact that membrane switch suppliers can create illuminated components is a real plus for medical facilities. Whether the membrane switch is lit via electroluminescent panels or via LEDs, this illumination can help communicate information more quickly (even at a distance or an odd angle). This makes it easier for medical staff to assess the status of a patient, thus improving overall patient care.
Membrane switches are just one technological component of the equipment used to ensure patient health and safety — but they’re certainly extremely important in this sector. To learn more about membrane switches and their applications, please contact us today.