title: Computer ergonomics: the medical practice guide to developing good computer habits.
abstract: Medical practice employees are likely to use computers for at least some of their work. Some sit several hours each day at computer workstations. Therefore, it is important that members of your medical practice team develop good computer work habits and that they know how to align equipment, furniture, and their bodies to prevent strain, stress, and computer-related injuries. This article delves into the field of computer ergonomics-the design of computer workstations and work habits to reduce user fatigue, discomfort, and injury. It describes practical strategies medical practice employees can use to improve their computer work habits. Specifically, this article describes the proper use of the computer workstation chair, the ideal placement of the computer monitor and keyboard, and the best lighting for computer work areas and tasks. Moreover, this article includes computer ergonomic guidelines especially for bifocal and progressive lens wearers and offers 10 tips for proper mousing. Ergonomically correct posture, movements, positioning, and equipment are all described in detail to enable the frequent computer user in your medical practice to remain healthy, pain-free, and productive.
authors.affiliation: Blue Pencil Institute, 10618 Regent Park Court, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA. merlegerle@aol.com
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Hills
mesh_terms: D016288:Computer Terminals; D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006804:Ergonomics; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D008029:Lighting; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010824:Physicians' Offices; D011187:Posture; D011216:Practice Management, Medical / Q000458:organization & administration*; D014691:Ventilation