Characterisation of Electromagnetic Compatibility of Electronic Medical Devices in Nigerian Hospital Environments

Electromagnetic compatibility failures in hospital environments can cause life-threatening malfunctions of critical medical devices including infusion pumps, ventilators, and cardiac monitors. Nigerian hospitals are increasingly deploying digital medical equipment in environments that may have elevated electromagnetic interference from mobile phones, wireless networks, and ageing electrical infrastructure. This study characterises the electromagnetic environment in intensive care units, operating theatres, and general wards at three tertiary hospitals in Abuja, Ibadan, and Kano, and evaluates the EMC susceptibility of representative medical devices. Broadband electromagnetic field measurements are performed from 9 kHz to 6 GHz using a calibrated GTEM cell antenna and spectrum analyser. Five medical device types including infusion pumps and pulse oximeters are tested for susceptibility under controlled radiated immunity test conditions following IEC 60601-1-2 procedures. Results identify GSM mobile phone emissions at 900 MHz as the dominant interference source in measured environments, with peak field strengths of 12.4 V per metre recorded at 0.5 m from active phones. Three of five device types show operational malfunctions at field strengths of 6 to 10 V per metre. The study recommends implementation of controlled mobile phone use policies and electromagnetic shielding improvements in Nigerian hospital critical care areas. Keywords: electromagnetic compatibility, medical devices, hospital, Nigeria, interference