A new article from the journal Ergonomics in Design reported on research by Tampere University into how exoskeleton technology can help reduce the physical burden of nurses.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow Tuuli Turja said, “This message from the field led us to investigate what conditions exoskeletons would need to meet in order to reform nursing. Currently, exoskeletons are mainly used in manufacturing and logistics. Isn’t it high time to introduce exoskeletons in female-dominated sectors, where musculoskeletal disorders are rampant?” she continues. “However, in our study, a very different type of mobile and light exoskeleton was worn by nurses in patient care.”
Two studies evaluated the Laevo Exoskeleton, which is a “passive” device designed to distribute loads across the body via interconnected pads on the back, chest and thighs. According to the manufacturer, it is designed to reduce lower back strain by 40 to 50%. For the first study, pairs of nurses helped elderly patients to wheelchairs from their hospital beds, with and without use of the exoskeleton. In the second study, seven nurses wore the exoskeleton in a real care environment.
The results show that although the nurses were amenable to their use, exoskeletons need specific designs when it comes to the challenges of patient care, such as comfort, interactive features and safety to help them through hectic workloads.
Source: Science Daily
