Are cell phones permitted in emergency?

Question

My next door neighbour's daughter hurt her ankle this morning and went to emergency.  I was concerned and asked my neighbout to keep me updated.  They came back around 4:00.  My neighbour said that she was told not to use her phone because it could effect the equipment.  Is this true?

Bruce · Accepted Answer

Anything that emits a signal can interfere with electronic equipment. That is the same reason you can't use a cell phone on an airplane while it is taking off or landing.

RICK · Answer

Yes cell phones may cause interference with some medical equipment but none of that equipment would be used in treatment of an injured ankle
Source Worked in hospitals and clinics for over 40 years

STEVEN F · Answer

That information is largely outdated.
Even when it was true, it wouldn't have prohibited going outside to make the call.
That said, I would have just told you up front I wasn't going to keep you updated except when we were face to face.
There is NOTHING about an injured ankle worth giving ANYONE regular updates.

Pearl · Answer

it could be true

Anonymous · Answer

No. The hospital lied because they didn't want your neighbor to call you.

Steven · Answer

A cell phone(or any transmitter) can cause interference to hospital equipment

Are cell phones permitted in emergency?

6 Answers