Task Analysis of Paramedics in the Ambulance Patient Compartment

Abstract

An ambulance is designed through the modification of an existing standard vehicle body. By converting, renovating and equipping a standard vehicle body with a patient stretcher, paramedic seats, nearside seats, and related medical equipment, the vehicle becomes an ambulance. Therefore, the requirements and layout of the ambulance interior are constrained by the space available and dimensions of the adopted vehicle. Ambulance occupant protection, safety and ergonomic aspects are usually compromised. High quality and consistent emergency care demand continuous quality improvement and is directly dependent on the effective monitoring, integration, and evaluation of all components of the patients care. Currently, there is no standard or guideline regarding patient compartment layout to help ambulance manufacturers to improve this confine working space. This study aims to assess and evaluate ambulance patient compartment and its effect on the paramedics in performing their tasks. Since the paramedics have to respond to emergencies, their comfort, safety and ease of handling the various equipment in the ambulance has to be considered. A combination of techniques was applied to collect comprehensive data, including interviews, observations and questionnaires which outcomes are used as a basis of suggestions for the improvement in ambulance layout design. By analyzing the tasks performed, a proper layout which considers the ergonomic aspects will ensure that the first response is efficient and reliable.