A COMPARISON OF THE OPINIONS OF NURSES AND EMERGENCYMEDICAL WORKERS REGARDING MEDICAL DEVICE USABILITY

摘要

In this study critical care nurses and emergency medical workers (including firefighters,emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics) were surveyed regarding theiropinions of medical device usability. The goal of the study was to determine how the twopopulations fared in terms of general product understanding, proficiency, usability, andfunctionality. Furthermore, the study identified similarities and differences between thetwo populations, and explored areas of medical technology design upon whichmanufacturers can improve. Results showed that a major concern of both populations wastraining; nurses and emergency medical workers felt that workloads do not allow time forsufficient mastery of the devices. The respondents also felt that medical devices could bemore consistent and less complex. Both groups indicated that it is most important todesign products that are easy to learn, easy to use upon first use, and efficient to use longterm.