Presentation
HE2 - A Happier NICU: Improving the Usability of NICU Technology from Healthcare Provider and Lay Caregiver Perspectives
DescriptionThe Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides a unique set of challenges for both healthcare providers (HCPs) and patient lay caregivers because neonates are non-verbal and have limited ability to provide reliable feedback about their own condition and comfort. In addition, HCPs and lay caregivers in the NICU must be able to respond to rapid changes in patient conditions safely and efficiently. The medical devices, communication tools, and other technologies used in this fast-paced environment are vital for maintaining order. Usability is one aspect of these devices that is often overlooked in favor of their functionality. However, if the intended users cannot use these devices safely and effectively, their functionality is moot. Therefore, continuing to gather usability data and feedback from practicing HCPs and lay caregivers regarding the technologies they use every day is fundamental for improving and perhaps reducing what may feel like chaos in the NICU.
Our study examines areas for NICU system improvement. We collected feedback from both NICU staff and from patient lay caregivers about common challenges working with equipment and technology in the NICU, responding to alarms, using emergency systems, and current communication tools for staff and patient family members. Feedback was collected through interviews and through the distribution of an online survey. The results of the research are grouped by category and considerations for usability improvement are presented. The results from the interviews and online survey may direct the design and application of more intuitive, user-friendly equipment, thus enabling HCPs to provide the best care possible, and lay caregivers to feel as comfortable as possible about their children being in the hospital.
Our study examines areas for NICU system improvement. We collected feedback from both NICU staff and from patient lay caregivers about common challenges working with equipment and technology in the NICU, responding to alarms, using emergency systems, and current communication tools for staff and patient family members. Feedback was collected through interviews and through the distribution of an online survey. The results of the research are grouped by category and considerations for usability improvement are presented. The results from the interviews and online survey may direct the design and application of more intuitive, user-friendly equipment, thus enabling HCPs to provide the best care possible, and lay caregivers to feel as comfortable as possible about their children being in the hospital.
Event Type
Poster Presentation
TimeMonday, March 254:45pm - 6:15pm CDT
LocationSalon C
Digital Health
Simulation and Education
Hospital Environments
Medical and Drug Delivery Devices
Patient Safety Research and Initiatives