NOSTOS: a paper-based ubiquitous computing healthcare environment to support data capture and collaboration

Area of Science:

• Clinical Informatics
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Health Systems Engineering

Background:

• Traditional emergency room workflows often rely heavily on paper-based systems.
• Existing computerization efforts may disrupt established clinical routines and collaboration.
• There is a need for integrated technology that supports, rather than replaces, current practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present NOSTOS, an experimental computer-augmented work environment for emergency rooms.
• To explore a new approach to clinical workplace computerization beyond traditional window-based interfaces.
• To support data capture and teamwork by enhancing paper-based practices with computer technology.

Main Methods:

• Development of the NOSTOS system, integrating digital pens, walk-up displays, headsets, smart desks, and sensors.
• Elicitation of system requirements through situated workplace studies in an emergency room setting.
• Design of physical interfaces to maintain mobile, paper-based collaborative routines.

Main Results:

• NOSTOS successfully combines multiple technologies to augment a paper-based clinical environment.
• The system allows clinicians to retain familiar collaborative routines while leveraging computer power.
• Situated workplace studies provided crucial requirements for system design.

Conclusions:

• Augmenting paper-based clinical work environments with computer technology offers unique advantages.
• The NOSTOS approach demonstrates a viable alternative to purely digital or window-based interfaces in healthcare.
• Further discussion on the benefits and drawbacks of this hybrid approach is warranted.