Introduction: The aim of this study was the detection and understanding of weak points in the ergonomic design of anaesthesia workplaces in a multidisciplinary operating room facility.
Methods: Analysis of workplaces and of working processes by means of observations, computer-supported task recording and video-photo documentation. During guided interviews the participants were provided with material for naming-by-pointing and drawing. Subsequently, the background of the problems encountered and possible improvements were visualised.
Results: Important deficits were devices not positioned within reach and view, difficulties in operating the lines connecting the patient and the devices, and inconsistent workplace layouts. These were caused by erroneous planning of the facility and disregarding ergonomic principles in equipment design. The initial improvements implemented were the development of a new concept for a flexible equipment positioning and the design of a tool for cable handling.
Discussion and conclusion: Although from the very beginning of the study the anaesthesia personnel quoted the handling of the lines connecting patients and devices as the main cause for working difficulties, the external ergonomist could contribute to a broader view of the problems. The method presented here initiated a mutual learning process between ergonomist and users and resulted in a common understanding of the problems and their causes. Compared to the traditional consulting process, more time and efforts were necessary but were offset by the users' acceptance of the improvements and the prevention of design errors.