Examination of computer task exposures in radiologists: a work systems approach.
Radiologists are intensive computer users as they review and interpret radiological examinations using the Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS). Since their computer tasks require the prolonged use of pointing devices, a high prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) is reported. The first phase of this study involved conducting a Cognitive Work Analysis in conjunction with a Participatory Ergonomics approach to perform a total work system analysis. We also conducted an ergonomic survey as well as collected computer use data, specifically for the mouse and keyboard. The goal of the study was to reduce the physical exposures for radiologists. This paper presents Phase I results describing the analyses and redesign process of the radiologists tasks, training design, computer use, and selected survey results.
Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety, Hopkinton, MA 01748, USA. Michelle.Robertson@LibertyMutual.com
Michelle M
MM
Robertson
Philip
P
Boiselle
Ronald
R
Eisenberg
Dainel
D
Siegal
Che-Hsu Joe
CH
Chang
Marvin
M
Dainoff
Angela
A
Garabet
Jennifer Bruno
JB
Garza
Jack
J
Dennerlein
D012090:Cumulative Trauma Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D006804:Ergonomics; D006801:Humans; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis