32 Using a Simulation Environment to Assess the Usability of a Novel Medical Device During the Covid-19 Pandemic

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2021

Authors

Sá-Couto CD (Author) FMUP; Nicolau, A (Author) Other; de Sousa, C (Author) Other; Nuno Cruz (Author) FEUP

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: International Journal of Healthcare Simulation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00V-ZT0

DOI: 10.54531/vqtw1346

Abstract (EN): <jats:p xml:lang="en">It was a recognized challenge of lack of ventilators needed to face COVID-19 worldwide. Although ventilators are sparse, self-inflating manual resuscitators are widely available in-hospital services, providing a rapid response to respiratory depression. Based on this, a device (PNEUMA) </jats:p><jats:p xml:lang="en">This work describes the use of a simulation environment to test the usability of a novel device to automate self-inflating manual resuscitators.</jats:p><jats:p xml:lang="en">The usability study was divided into two parts: (1) participants followed a protocol with instructions for assembling and using the system in a non-clinical context (</jats:p><jats:p xml:lang="en">Usability testing. Left panel ¿ assembly of the system (part I); right panel ¿ use of the system in an immersive clinical simulation environment (part II).</jats:p><jats:p xml:lang="en">A convenience sample (two MDs and six RNs) from an intensive care unit of a tertiary Portuguese hospital participated in the test. Usability testing showed that the system was easy and timely assembled, with low complexity of use (e.g. not requiring external help). The clinical scenario tested the transition between spontaneous and mechanical ventilation, and ventilatory parameters¿ control, using PNEUMA. All participants reported that the controllable parameters (I:E, RR, Vol, PIP, Plat, and PEEP) were relevant and easy to change. Participants suggested the inclusion of patient parameters such as the tidal volume and lung compliance. Participants also suggested improvements, such as the inclusion of pressure alarms and a more user-friendly interface. All participants reported that they would be willing to use the device for emergency use.</jats:p><jats:p xml:lang="en">The reported study resulted in recommendations and ameliorations of the device, before its use in real settings, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of simulation environments for device/systems¿ testing provides a timely and standardized approach, enabling a safer clinical practice.</jats:p>

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific