Open AccessImportance and Effects of Altered Workplace Ergonomics in Modern Radiology Suites
Author(s) -
Mukesh G. Harisinghani,
Michael A. Blake,
Mansi Saksena,
Peter F. Hahn,
Debra A. Gervais,
Michael E. Zalis,
Leonor da Silva Dias Fernandes,
Peter R. Müeller
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
radiographics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.866
H-Index - 172
eISSN - 1527-1323
pISSN - 0271-5333
DOI - 10.1148/rg.242035089
Subject(s) - workstation , medicine , intranet , human factors and ergonomics , table (database) , software , productivity , suite , work (physics) , the internet , computer science , poison control , medical emergency , world wide web , database , engineering , operating system , mechanical engineering , history , archaeology , economics , macroeconomics
The transition from a film-based to a filmless soft-copy picture archiving and communication system (PACS)-based environment has resulted in improved work flow as well as increased productivity, diagnostic accuracy, and job satisfaction. Adapting to this filmless environment in an efficient manner requires seamless integration of various components such as PACS workstations, the Internet and hospital intranet, speech recognition software, paperless electronic hospital medical records, e-mail, office software, and telecommunications. However, the importance of optimizing workplace ergonomics has received little attention. Factors such as the position of the work chair, workstation table, keyboard, mouse, and monitors, along with monitor refresh rates and ambient room lighting, have become secondary considerations. Paying close attention to the basics of workplace ergonomics can go a long way in increasing productivity and reducing fatigue, thus allowing full realization of the potential benefits of a PACS. Optimization of workplace ergonomics should be considered in the basic design of any modern radiology suite.