Ergonomics of using a mouse or other non-keyboard input device

Ten years ago, when the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations (HSE, 1992) were drafted, the majority of computer interaction occurred with text driven interfaces, using a keyboard. It is not surprising then that the guidance accompanying the DSE Regulations included virtually no mention of the computer mouse or other non-keyboard input devices (NKID). In the intervening period, graphical user interfaces, incorporating ‘windows, icons and pull down menus’ (WIMPS), with a heavy reliance on pointing devices such as the mouse, have transformed user computer interaction. Accompanying this, however, have been increasing anecdotal reports of musculoskeletal health problems affecting NKID users. While the performance aspects of NKID (e.g. accuracy and speed) have been the subject of detailed research, the possible implications for user health have received comparatively little attention. The research presented in this report was commissioned by the Health and Safety Executive to improve understanding of the nature and extent of NKID health problems. This investigation, together with another project examining mobile computing (Heasman et. al., 2000), was intended to contribute to a planned review and updating of the DSE Regulations and accompanying guidance

What is the relationship between human factors & ergonomics and quality improvement in healthcare?

© 2015 Taylor & Francis.A recent initiative in the National Health Service (NHS, UK) has led to an increased interest in Human Factors & Ergonomics (HFE). As part of initial discussions there have been questions about the similarities and differences between HFE and Quality Improvement (QI).We believe that there are considerable advantages from a more structured relationship between HFE and QI in healthcare and have comparatively mapped a range of dimensions (origins, drivers, philosophy, focus, role and methods). Our conclusion is that HFE in healthcare should use four criteria to maximise the benefits from this opportunity, including the use of HFE methods to design systems, environments, products etc. and the direct involvement of qualified (chartered) HFE professionals

Human factors & ergonomics and quality improvement science: integrating approaches for safety in healthcare

Introduction: In this paper, we will address the important question of how quality improvement science (QIS) and human factors and ergonomics (HFE) can work together to produce safer solutions for healthcare. We suggest that there will be considerable advantages from an integrated approach between the two disciplines and professions which could be achieved in two phases. First, by identifying people trained in HFE and those trained in QIS who understand how to work together and second, by developing opportunities for integrated education and training. To develop this viewpoint we will: Discuss and explore how QIS and HFE could be integrated by building on existing definitions, scope of practice, knowledge, skills, methods, research and expertise in each discipline. Outline opportunities for a longer-term integration through training, and education for healthcare professionals

Demographic characteristics of participants.

<p>Demographic characteristics of participants.</p

Percentage of errors in the discrimination test.

<p>Percentage of errors in the discrimination test.</p

Scenario and percentage of errors in reading the strips during the discrimination test.

<p>Scenario and percentage of errors in reading the strips during the discrimination test.</p

Co-designed process of use of hydrophilic NG-tube and pH strips to check the tube position.

<p>Co-designed process of use of hydrophilic NG-tube and pH strips to check the tube position.</p

Demographic data of interviewees.

<p>Demographic data of interviewees.</p

Summary of methods and objectives of the study.

<p>Summary of methods and objectives of the study.</p

Human Factors and Ergonomics and Quality Improvement Science: Integrating Approaches for Safety in Healthcare

In this paper, we will address the important question of how quality improvement science (QIS) and human factors and ergonomics (HFE) can work together to produce safer solutions for healthcare. We suggest that there will be considerable advantages from an integrated approach between the two disciplines and professions which could be achieved in two phases. First, by identifying people trained in HFE and those trained in QIS who understand how to work together and second, by developing opportunities for integrated education and training. To develop this viewpoint we will: Discuss and explore how QIS and HFE could be integrated by building on existing definitions, scope of practice, knowledge, skills, methods, research and expertise in each discipline; Outline opportunities for a longer-term integration through training, and education for healthcare professionals