Table 1 Advantages and disadvantages of walkie talkie use in health care settings

Low cost

Non-secure channel

Easy to decontaminate per IPC guidance

Miscommunication between multiple teams sharing the same channel

Simple to operate

Radio frequencies may be obstructed by hospital structures (e.g. lead lining within radiotherapy departments)

Can be used while wearing PPE

Specific communication approach required

Does not rely on telecommunication infrastructure

“One to many” communication provides instant access to the whole team