DIATHERMY TESTER

Typical Number in Hospital: 1

Cost Bands: 2,3

References:

The output power of surgical diathermy apparatus may need testing as part of the servicing procedure. In its simplest form the tester may consist of a group of lightbulbs, possibly with a light cell to measure the light output. A more precise measurement may be made using a large non-inductive resistor and a radio-frequency ammeter calibrated in output power. A typical output for a surgical diathermy apparatus is 200 W but more powerful devices suitable for underwater surgery in the bladder may deliver up to 800 W. Diathermy testers would be found in the electronics laboratory. Testers also exist for short-wave diathermy apparatus, of the type used in the physiotherapy department.