Research Project Summary

Year Funded: 2010 Budget: 49,956 Funding Agency: WorkSafeBC
Title: Ergonomic Syringe Adapter
Category: Changing Nature of Work and Work Environment
Subcategory: Changing Nature of Work and Work Environment
Keywords: Ergonomic, healthcare, musculoskeletal, chemotherapy, nurse
Link to research website:

Issue:

An ergonomic assessment conducted by the Provincial Health Services Authority revealed that there is a high risk of injury to the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow of British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA) nurses who administer chemotherapy drugs using large volume syringes. An ergonomic syringe adapter is being designed and developed that will help to eliminate awkward hand and finger postures, and reduce hand grip force so that risk of injury for users is prevented or reduced.

Objectives:

The research will build on an existing concept to complete a detailed design followed by a verification and validation process. It will consist of an evaluation of the syringe adapter to quantify the reduction in level of risk in comparison to the current method of drug administration. Other factors that will be evaluated to determine the success of the solution will include: user acceptance, ease-of-use, functionality, performance, safety (to caregiver and patient), and hygiene.

Anticipated Results:

It is anticipated that the research will result in the development of a tool that can be used by chemotherapy nursing staff to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury.

Investigators:

Rick Hall (Vancouver Coastal Health – PHSA)