In the high-stakes environment of pediatric healthcare, ensuring that medical equipment operates flawlessly is a task of paramount importance. The clinical engineering team at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) is responsible for this critical work, providing, optimizing, and enhancing the medical devices necessary for pediatric care. What makes this team exceptional is not just their competence and dedication but also the significant role of women within this field. Celebrating International Women’s Day, CHEO honors the women who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes, making sure medical devices are safe and effective for their young patients.
The Role of Clinical Engineers and Biomedical Technologists
Clinical engineers at CHEO have the critical responsibility of procuring the best medical devices to ensure that not only are they the best in their function but they also work seamlessly together, forming a coherent medical system. They meticulously evaluate and select equipment, then oversee its integration into the hospital’s operations. Understanding the nuances of various devices and how they can best serve pediatric patients is a demanding task that requires technical acumen and a passionate commitment to patient safety. On the other hand, biomedical engineering technologists work closely with clinicians to ensure that these devices function properly day in and day out.
Biomedical technologists are at the front lines of maintaining and verifying equipment functionality. They conduct regular inspections, troubleshoot issues, and perform necessary repairs, all while collaborating extensively with medical staff to ensure that equipment meets clinical needs. Together, the clinical engineers and biomedical technologists form an integrated team that is fundamental to the hospital’s mission of providing exceptional pediatric care. Their expertise supports the doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus their energy on patient care rather than on the tools they use to deliver it.
Celebrating Individual Contributions
Ishtar Al-Tahir is one of the clinical engineers who joined CHEO in 2022. Al-Tahir has been instrumental in projects aimed at enhancing the technological capabilities of the hospital. Her insights and technical prowess ensure that the devices procured meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency, directly impacting the quality of care provided to the young patients. Another notable figure is Marie-Ange Janvier, who has been part of the CHEO family for thirteen years. Her enduring commitment and vast experience have been vital in undertaking significant projects, such as equipping the Emergency Department at Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital.
Marie-Ange speaks passionately about the familial bond within the team and the necessity of continuous learning as technology advances. Her work highlights the importance of blending technical skills with the human element, ensuring that the developmental needs and safety of pediatric patients are always prioritized. Recently joining the team is Hannah Thomson, who started in late 2023 and quickly made her mark by securing updated equipment for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This initiative, supported by Ontario government funding, showcases the proactive approach CHEO takes in keeping its medical technology up-to-date. Hannah’s rapid impact underscores the seamless blending of fresh ideas with the team’s seasoned expertise.
Commitment to Gender Equality
CHEO stands out not only for its stellar clinical engineering team but also for its strong commitment to gender equality, with an impressive 84% of the workforce being female. Numerous women hold pivotal roles within the clinical engineering team, mirroring the 2025 International Women’s Day theme, “strength in every story.” This dedication to gender parity is not just about numbers but is deeply embedded in the hospital’s culture and operational ethos. The women of CHEO’s clinical engineering team demonstrate exceptional skills, bringing diverse perspectives that drive innovation and enhanced patient care.
Gender equality at CHEO ensures that the hospital benefits from a wide range of ideas and approaches, ultimately leading to more holistic and effective solutions in pediatric care. The environment fosters professional growth and continuous learning, enabling team members to remain at the forefront of technological advancements. By championing gender equality, CHEO not only contributes to social progress but also strengthens its capability to provide top-notch care. This culture of inclusivity empowers women to lead crucial initiatives, ensuring that medical equipment is safe, effective, and up-to-date.
Building a Strong and Healthy Future
In the high-stakes realm of pediatric healthcare, ensuring that medical equipment functions perfectly is crucial. The clinical engineering team at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) plays a vital role in this, tasked with providing, optimizing, and enhancing the medical devices needed for pediatric care. What sets this team apart is not only their expertise and dedication but also the significant contribution of women in this field. In honor of International Women’s Day, CHEO recognizes the relentless efforts of women who work diligently behind the scenes. These women are pivotal in ensuring that medical devices are safe and effective for young patients. Their unwavering commitment and skilled work ensure that the healthcare environment is equipped with the best tools to support pediatric care. CHEO celebrates and acknowledges these women for their tireless dedication, highlighting their invaluable roles in keeping medical equipment functioning flawlessly for the children in their care.
