Simulation for Operating Room Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the study of how people interact with, and work within an environment. This idea is especially important in a setting such as the operating room (OR), which can be both physically and mentally challenging. Poor ergonomic practices lead to physical discomfort and injuries in \>50% of OR staff (surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses), impacting OR staff quality of life and leading to staff burnout and early retirement. The end result of which is reduced access to care for patients. Furthermore, the added mental effort of dealing with discomfort and pain can also increase the risk of errors and complications, affecting patient outcomes.

Despite high ergonomic stresses in the OR, and the existence of proven recommendations to address them, only a small number of OR staff are aware of ergonomic solutions and how to apply them. To bridge this gap between knowledge and application, we will assess the ergonomic needs of OR teams and develop an educational simulation curriculum to teach ergonomic recommendations to OR teams (surgery, anesthesiology, and nursing staff and trainees).