Researchers at Kennesaw State University (KSU) are pioneering advancements in healthcare technology through their work in the Human Factors, Operations Optimization, and Ergonomics (HOPE) Lab. By integrating cutting-edge tools like eye-tracking sensors and wearable exoskeletons, they aim to enhance patient safety, reduce costs, and improve the overall quality of care.
Key Takeaways
- KSU’s HOPE Lab focuses on improving healthcare workflows.
- Advanced technologies are being used to enhance patient safety and reduce costs.
- Collaboration with Wellstar Health System ensures real-world application of research.
Addressing Inefficiencies in Healthcare
The HOPE Lab is dedicated to redesigning outdated healthcare processes that often lead to inefficiencies and increased costs. Associate Professor Awatef Ergai emphasizes that many current workflows are not only ineffective but also place unnecessary strain on both patients and healthcare providers.
By utilizing sensors to identify workflow constraints, the researchers aim to eliminate redundant steps, thereby enhancing both staff performance and patient care. Ergai states, "By refining these processes, we can reduce inefficiencies, enhance patient safety, improve healthcare quality, and ultimately make healthcare more affordable, safe, and effective for everyone."
Enhancing Focus and Reducing Errors
The lab’s research also delves into cognitive and physical design aspects to eliminate friction in healthcare workflows. Assistant Professor Valentina Nino explains that eye-tracking sensors are employed to monitor healthcare workers’ focus, identifying areas of distraction or cognitive overload. This data allows the team to recommend changes to workflow layouts and training protocols, ultimately improving concentration and reducing errors.
Improving Physical Ergonomics
In addition to cognitive enhancements, the HOPE Lab is exploring the use of wearable exoskeletons and motion capture sensors to improve the physical ergonomics of healthcare work. These devices are designed to assist healthcare workers by alleviating the physical toll of repetitive tasks such as lifting and bending.
By tracking movements and monitoring stress on muscles and joints, the lab aims to design exoskeletons that provide real-time assistance, helping to prevent common musculoskeletal injuries. Nino notes, "Our goal is to evaluate if their incorporation into healthcare tasks will have benefits to the providers and patients."
Real-World Collaboration
The researchers are collaborating with Wellstar Health System and KSU’s Coles College of Business to refine their research based on real-world feedback. This partnership allows them to test designs in clinical settings, ensuring that their solutions address the actual challenges faced by healthcare professionals.
The interdisciplinary approach includes collaboration with various departments within KSU, enhancing the technological soundness and practical relevance of their research.
Addressing Burnout and Rising Costs
The HOPE Lab also aims to tackle the growing issue of burnout among healthcare workers, who often face long hours and high-stress environments. By improving the physical sustainability of healthcare work, the researchers believe they can contribute to a healthier workforce, which in turn leads to better patient care.
Nino states, "We want to create a system where technology works for the people who use it, not the other way around."
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, KSU researchers envision a future where human-centered design principles and advanced technology are seamlessly integrated into everyday healthcare practices, ultimately benefiting both providers and patients alike.
Sources
- Kennesaw State researchers are reshaping healthcare with innovative technologies in the HOPE Lab – News, Kennesaw State University.
