Resonance Imaging in Hospital Work System Layout

Abstract

Context is the layout of a new multidiscipline facility with approx. 25 operating rooms (OR's). Focus lies on the question whether to work with rooms for preparation/induction of the patient or to do these procedures in the OR. Method is the analysis of work procedures and expert-user interviews in the university hospitals in Switzerland (Zurich, Bern, Lausanne), Belgium (Leuven) and USA (MAYO-Medical Center/Rochester). Task analysis is done with the FIT-System. The interviews are carried out with the VALAMO (variable layout model). The user's statements are structured in a database called MEDINO (management, ergonomics and design information for organisations). In contrast to the Swiss hospitals (6-8 OR's, induction rooms, no central holding areas), the MAYO-Clinic (45 OR's) as well as the hospital in Leuven (16 OR's) have central holding areas, an integrated post anaesthesia care unit. Both hospitals have induction rooms which are no longer in use due to cost constraints. The hospital in Leuven shows an efficient work in small teams without nurse anaesthetists and an OR layout which supports overview and supervision.