NEMA releases CT control standard
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published XR 26 Access Controls for Computed Tomography: Identification, Interlocks and Logs. This access control standard requires software features that ensure only an authorized operator can alter CT equipment controls.
Requirements of the standard include assigning specific permissions to selected uses beyond those needed for daily routine scanning, such as authorization to alter protocols. It includes provisions to lock the user interface manually so that unauthorized users cannot access system controls. The standard also contains features for use in a facility’s quality assurance program, such as recording operator and patient information and tracking changes made to protocols.
The NEMA standard helps prevent inadvertent changes to scanning protocols. It is not intended to change the existing service or applications access or permissions currently available on CT scanners, nor is it intended to define all access or quality assurance related functionality.
Requirements of the standard include assigning specific permissions to selected uses beyond those needed for daily routine scanning, such as authorization to alter protocols. It includes provisions to lock the user interface manually so that unauthorized users cannot access system controls. The standard also contains features for use in a facility’s quality assurance program, such as recording operator and patient information and tracking changes made to protocols.
The NEMA standard helps prevent inadvertent changes to scanning protocols. It is not intended to change the existing service or applications access or permissions currently available on CT scanners, nor is it intended to define all access or quality assurance related functionality.