Power Cords Under FDA Scrutiny

to cause electric shock, interruption of therapy, device failure, and fires, which could lead to serious injury or death. The reports all involve Hospira or Abbott devices that have AC power cords with a black plastic bridge manufactured by the Electri-cord Manufacturing Company. The cords are used with a number of medical manufacturers, and  FDA is in the process of determining which specific medical devices may be affected. Investigations so far suggest that the problems are caused by the prongs of the power cords cracking and failing at, or inside, the plug. FDA warns that all users of medical devices should be aware of the wear and tear on power cords. The agency recommends that any users who find they have cords with the black plastic bridge between the prongs should look closely for bent or cracked prongs, visible burns on the outer sheath, black residue or excessive signs of use and damage.