English for Specific Purposes

54 Electronic Engineering

 

SPECIALIST READING A: Biomedical Engineering

 

9. Read the text quickly and give headings to the paragraphs 1-5.

 

10. Reread the text and answer the following questions.

 

1. Which spheres does biomedical engineering combine?

2. Which devices are used for updating medical equipment?

3. How is the quality of people’s lives improved due to biomedical engineering?

4. What are biomedical engineers’ typical responsibilities?

5. How can one become a biomedical engineer?

6. Why is it natural for a biomedical engineer to concentrate on a specific aspect?

7. What are the areas which a biomedical engineer can specialize in?

 

 

1. _________________________________

Biomedical Engineering is a sphere that

 

combines a knowledge of electronic, mechanical, chemical and materials-engineering, with the life sciences of medicine, biology and molecular biology. It involves producing medical equipment that support and enhance human life, aid in delivering medical procedures, test data which improve health and safety. These are pacemakers, dialysis machines, electrocardiogram machines, infusion pumps, bedside monitors and anesthesia machines used throughout the hospitals, clinics and rehabs.

2. _________________________________

Biomedical engineers work in cooperation with

 

doctors and medical scientists, researching and designing ways to improve health care and medical services. They use microcomputers, lasers, etc. to develop and upgrade medical research equipment that is intended to diagnose health problems as well as to monitor and treat patients. Biomedical engineers also design and deliver technology to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities generating various prostheses like synthetic limbs (knees, shoulders, hips), artificial organs, corrective lenses, cochlear and dental implants, ocular and facial prosthetics, etc. These devices help individuals to overcome physical disabilities. Biomedical engineers also take part in improving the efficiency of machines like MRI, x-rays in hospitals and laboratories. After years of research by biomedical engineers, an artificial heart has recently been developed which helps people with heart problems to live a better life.

3. _________________________________

Typical biomedical engineering department

 

technicians are responsible for the safe and effective operation of monitoring, diagnostic, and therapeutic medical equipment such as CAT scanners, pacemakers and kidney machines. They may be also involved in designing artificial joints and limbs and assisting the surgical team in fitting these to the patient.

4. _________________________________

 

To become a biomedical engineer, a person needs to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Though many research and development institutions give preference to M.S. graduates or PhD degree