Citations 1
Iterative Design of a Prototype Patient Tray for Unstable Spines
Li, Yifan , Shikanov, Eve , Hovelson, Loryn, Erickson, Darcy R., Cerri, Petrine , Malagrino, Gerald, Erickson, Darcy, Hallbeck, M. Susan , Malagrino, Gerald D.
Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting | September 4, 2026 | Volume: No volume available | Issue: No issue available | Pages: No page available
Hospital practitioners have a high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders due to manual patient transfers. Reducing patient transfers can improve safety for staff and patients, especially those with unstable spines. A study at our academic hospital with the Safe TrAnsfer Tray prototype (STAT Tray V1) found transfers could be reduced to the two unavoidable transfers at the beginning and end of care. Surveys from 37 practitioners identified clinical challenges. User feedback informed design requirements for STAT Tray V2. Candidate materials were tested for MRI and CT compatibility, and pressure mapping evaluated padding combinations to reduce pressure-related injuries. STAT Tray V2 was designed for MRI and CT compatibility, current lift systems, and patients ranging from the 5th percentile female to the 95th percentile male while reducing pressure injury risk. Following manufacturing, usability testing will evaluate performance in the Emergency Department, imaging, operating suite, and ICU.