Final answer:
Any manual or mechanical device is subject to limitations such as the device's precision, user skill level, and object irregularities. In engineering practice, these factors are critical as they affect troubleshooting and the safety of engineering solutions. In healthcare, adherence to protocols is essential for patient safety and determining liability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Any manual or mechanical device or equipment used in a field of practice is subject to several considerations, including limitations of the measuring devices, the skill of the person making the measurement, and irregularities in the object being measured. In a field of mechanical engineering, professionals rely on their ability to use techniques, skills, and the necessary modern engineering tools for best practice. For instance, when troubleshooting problems with complex mechanical systems, engineers may use the sound produced by vibrating parts to identify issues. If, for example, a part in an automobile is resonating at the frequency of the car's engine, this may cause unwanted vibrations, potentially leading to engine failure.
Similarly, in the medical field, equipment is crucial, and maintenance and protocols are vital for patient safety. Protocols for cleaning or sterilizing medical equipment are developed by government agencies like the FDA, and adherence to these procedures is essential. Hospitals and health-care workers can be held liable if they do not follow these procedures and a breach occurs. In the event of equipment failure or detection of a flaw in the procedures or devices, determining liability involves considering whether health-care workers adhered to procedures or if the manufacturer provided defective equipment. Moreover, the government plays a role in ensuring the fail-safe use and maintenance of these devices.