The role of ergonomics in healthcare spaces

Ergonomics is the careful study of the interactions between humans and all the elements present in a given space. Through the study of ergonomics, we seek to create a perfect integration between working conditions, the physical and psychological capabilities and limitations of the healthcare professional and the efficiency of the production system. Find out more in this article!

Ergonomics in medical offices

If you are a doctor and are looking to modernize your care and increase productivity, it is essential to think about this concept. In an office, ergonomics encompasses more than the organization of the environment. You should think about the flow of your patients, the use of technology, thefurniture, in the equipment, as well as in all methods and processes, of all elements of your space. From professionals to users, as all these factors will have a direct link to their performance.

Pay attention to your posture

It is very common for a doctor to work several hours at a time. Based on this assumption, try to always sit with both feet flat on the floor and the table and chair are at a height that guarantees you forearms resting on the table and elbows at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.

Counter ergonomics

Have you ever imagined being seen by an unfriendly receptionist because you have back pain? Or disorganized because you have nowhere to store all your work tools? An ergonomically well-made counter will align the necessary measurements with the comfort of whoever uses it, whether employee or patient, and with the organization of all elements.

And what are the measures?

The ideal height for working while sitting is approximately 75cm. However, if your patient is seen standing up, the counter needs to have a second height of almost 1 meter. Here the secret is to achieve a harmonious solution between these two moments, without the employee who receives the patient being hidden.

Organize your office

More than that: organize your work environment. Pay special attention to the arrangement of furniture to facilitate mobility for everyone: doctors, employees and patients. Try to foresee all your tasks so that you can have your main necessary elements accessible, effortlessly, during the treatment provided.

Also, don't forget to:

• analyze noise levels and room temperatures;
• invest in chairs with lumbar support;
• Position all treatment instruments at an appropriate height to minimize physical effort and poor posture.

Regardless of whether you are in the creation phase orremodelof your office, think about two issues: comfort and functionality. The ergonomics of your office is one of the key points for a successful service.

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