Presentation
Mixed-Methods Evaluation of the Potential for Back-Support Exoskeletons to Assist Emergency Medical Services Clinicians in Performing Patient-Handling Tasks
DescriptionEmergency medical services (EMS) clinicians are at high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), with a significant annual prevalence of low-back pain. We conducted two studies to explore the potential of back-support exoskeletons (BSEs) in assisting EMS clinicians during patient handling tasks. The first study, which assessed perceptions of BSEs through a focus group with 35 EMS clinicians, identified five key themes of decision-making considerations for BSE adoption: perceived benefits, use cases, device-related factors, job-specific factors, and workflow integration. The second study, which investigated the biomechanical effects of BSEs with eight EMS clinicians, revealed mixed results: while using a powered BSE (Apogee) significantly decreased trunk extensor muscle activity and perceived exertion during most patient handling tasks, using a passive BSE (Apex) had minimal effects on muscle activity but resulted in reduced perceived discomfort in the back and shoulder. Our results suggest that using a powered BSE may provide greater benefits in reducing physical load, but considerations addressed by the focus group study, such as storage, donning and doffing, work performance, and safety, remain important for successful adoption in EMS settings. Further investigations may be needed to evaluate the practical benefits and challenges through field trials.
Contributors
Event Type
Lecture
TimeTuesday, October 14th3pm - 3:20pm CDT
LocationGrand C/D South
Occupational Ergonomics
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