"Creating an Ergonomically Sound Work
Environment", (c) Joyce Bromberg, Healthcare Design Magazine,
September 2007
Use of electronic medical data, digital imaging and wireless
communication in healthcare
has
significantly increased the speed and accuracy of providing care. These
technologies
have also
dramatically changed the process, workflow and tasks performed by many
specialists
within healthcare facilities.
Many healthcare
organizations have recognized increased number of ergonomic injuries
since
adopting some of the new technologies. Clinicians in these areas find it
difficult to
carve out
adequate and comfortable workspace amidst the quantity of new and
existing
hardware
that must be accommodated.
Details, a
Steelcase Company, has been studying radiology reading environments for
a
number of
years. With our research partners we have developed insights about how
existing
spaces can transition to accommodate digital technology and not ignore
the
ergonomic
needs of the occupants of the space. Often this means blending equipment
used for
film-based reading with newer digital modalities.
Below are a few
suggestions on how to deal with the most commonly encountered issues:
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Film carts (if
needed) should be located near room entrance to reduce travel for
|
|
technicians and to lessen interruption to physician.
|
|
Alternators (if needed) should be located near viewing monitors to
facilitate |
|
analogous
reading of film and digital images. |
|
Maintain
open space around and behind viewing stations to accommodate
|
|
collaboration and/or residents in viewing activities.
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|
Low
reflectance finishes should be used to avoid glare.
|
|
As often
as possible surfaces for monitors should be no deeper than 24” to
allow |
|
the
radiologist to view monitors closely without leaning forward over the
surface |
|
and
insure proper back support by the back of the chair.
|
|
Monitor
should be placed on articulating armatures to encourage users to fine
tune |
|
their
placement (depth, height and pitch) and avoid poor ergonomic postures.
|
|
If
possible work surfaces should be quickly and easily height adjustable
to |
|
accommodate needs of different users and allow better viewing for
groups
|
